The Australian government is investing more than $100 million for seasonal influenza vaccines to protect Australians most at risk this winter.  The approach to managing influenza and COVID-19 over the winter months will focus on minimising health impacts, while protecting those most at risk of severe illness.

The government has secured vaccines to cover all vulnerable people eligible for a government-funded vaccine through the National Immunisation Programme (NIP). This amounts to around 9.5 million doses for Australians.

Those eligible for a government-funded flu vaccine include adults 65 years and over; children under five; pregnant women; Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; and people with certain medical conditions.

The National Immunisation Programme offers a specific, enhanced influenza vaccine to protect people 65 years and over. In addition to vaccines available for those most at risk through the NIP, private market vaccines will also be available.

Influenza vaccination is particularly important this year. With the easing of international and domestic public health measures arising from the COVID-19 global pandemic, a resurgence of influenza is expected in 2022.

Government funded influenza vaccines will become available from 4 April through a range of providers including GPs, community health clinics and eligible pharmacies subject to local supply arrangement in states and territories.