About the program
The National COVID-19 Vaccine Program (NCVP) provides free COVID-19 vaccines to all people in Australia. The NCVP ensures people have access to safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines to help:
- protect against severe illness, hospitalisation or death due to COVID-19
- reduce the likelihood of developing long COVID symptoms.
Accessing COVID-19 Vaccines
COVID-19 vaccinations are free for everyone in Australia, including those without a Medicare card. The Australian Immunisation Handbook recommends a primary dose of COVID-19 vaccine for all people aged 18 years and over and some younger people with risk factors. It also recommends regular COVID-19 vaccinations (known as boosters) based on a person's age and specified medical condition.
For more information about COVID-19 vaccinations, see COVID-19 vaccine advice and recommendations. You can use the booster eligibility tool to find out if you are eligible for a COVID-19 booster vaccination.
You can get COVID-19 vaccines from a range of vaccination providers. To find a vaccination provider near you, use the healthdirect Service Finder. It also identifies clinics that cater to special requirements, such as ramp access and quiet spaces.
Program governance
The NCVP was established in 2021 by the Australian Government to assist with the global impact of COVID-19.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is responsible for assessing all COVID-19 vaccines for safety, quality and efficacy before they can be used in Australia. A vaccine will only be approved by the TGA if the benefits are much greater than its risks.
The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) advises the Australian Government on who should receive COVID-19 vaccines, and how often.
The Department of Health and Aged Care manages the storage and distribution of vaccines and consumable products nationally.
Learn more about the TGA’s COVID-19 vaccine approval process and the role of ATAGI.