COVID-19 vaccine funding is changing
From 1 October 2026, the Australian Government is changing how COVID-19 vaccines are funded.
Until now, COVID-19 vaccines have been available free of charge to eligible people under a separate government COVID-19 vaccination program. From October, COVID-19 vaccination will become part of the National Immunisation Program (NIP)– the government program that funds vaccines for people who meet specific eligibility criteria.
What does this mean for you?
Free COVID-19 vaccines will no longer be available as broadly as they have been. Instead, government-funded vaccines will be available to specific groups who are at greater risk of becoming seriously unwell from COVID-19.
Who will remain eligible for a free COVID-19 vaccine?
From 1 October, government-funded COVID-19 vaccines will be available for:
- Adults aged 75 years and over – eligible for a dose every 6 months
- Adults aged 65–74 years – eligible for one dose every 12 months
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50–74 years – eligible for one dose every 12 months
- Adults aged 18–64 years with severe immunocompromise – eligible for one dose every 12 months
What if I’m not eligible for a free vaccine?
If you don’t fall into one of the groups above, you will no longer be eligible for a government-funded COVID-19 vaccine from 1 October 2026.
You may still choose to have a COVID-19 vaccination privately. There will be an out-of-pocket cost for the vaccine, however pricing has not yet been confirmed. We’ll provide further information once private vaccine pricing and availability are known.
Not sure if you’re eligible?
You can check your vaccination history through the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR).
Simply log in to myGov, access Medicare and select Proof of vaccinations to view your Immunisation History Statement.
This can help you check when you received your last COVID-19 vaccine before making your next appointment.
COVID-19 vaccinations at Rozelle Total Health
These changes take effect from 1 October 2026.
If you think you may be eligible for a government-funded vaccine, or have questions about the changes, please contact our reception team.
📞 Call us on 02 9087 4600 to book or enquire.
