Vaccinations and boosters

• Vaccination helps protect us from diseases or their effects.
• Boosters are doses of vaccine given after the initial immunisation course. This can often be years later.
• You may need a booster because immunity to the disease can reduce over time.

When you may need specific vaccines or boosters

Some diseases may only affect certain groups of people or occur in specific locations. In these situations, you may require a specific vaccine or booster if you are:

• a female intending to become pregnant
• have a chronic illness
• work in specific jobs, for example, nursing
• are planning to travel overseas

What are common vaccinations in Australia?

Common vaccinations include:

• chickenpox (varicella)
• diphtheria
• haemophilus Influenza Type B (Hib)
• hepatitis A
• hepatitis B
• human papilloma virus
• influenza
• measles
• meningococcal infection
• mumps
• polio
• pneumococcal disease
• rotavirus
• rubella (German measles)
• tetanus
• whooping cough (pertussis)

How much do vaccines cost?

Many vaccines are provided free of charge by your doctor or other immunisation provider. You may have to pay a consultation fee to your general practitioner for their time.

COVID-19 and flu vaccination

• The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older. 
• There are certain groups of the population who are more at-risk of becoming unwell from flu who are eligible for funded (NIP) vaccine.
• Find out more about flu vaccinations.
• Everyone aged 5 years and older is recommended to complete a primary course of an age-appropriate COVID-19 vaccine. For most people, this is two doses. For those with severe immunocompromise, a third primary dose is recommended. Find out more about COVID-19 vaccination. 
• Children aged 6 months to 4 years with risk factors for severe COVID-19 are also recommended to complete a primary course.
• All adults aged 18 years and over are also eligible for a 2023 COVID-19 booster dose. Find out more about COVID-19 vaccination.