Immunisation news

Read the latest news on immunisation.

Latest news

Protect yourself and your mob from the flu this winter

Influenza (also known as 'flu') is a highly contagious illness caused by the influenza virus. There are simple things you can do to protect yourself and your mob from flu.

ATAGI advice on the preferential use of bivalent COVID-19 vaccines for primary vaccination of people aged 12 years or older

ATAGI has made recommendations on the use of bivalent COVID-19 vaccines as a primary course.

Protecting Older Australians – COVID-19 update 8 May 2023

In this issue, read about managing COVID-19, COVID-19 vaccination booster doses, influenza vaccinations, accessing COVID-19 PCR testing through Medicare, IPC Lead Nurse training grants, PPE winter deployment, and the ACCPA Winter preparedness webinar.

Fighting flu starts with you

Getting your annual flu vaccination can protect you from influenza and its complications. The influenza vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and over.

The new COVID-19 and Influenza Immunisation History Statement

From 15 April 2023, you can use the new COVID-19 and Influenza Immunisation History Statement from the Australian Immunisation Register.

New campaign reminds parents and carers about the importance of timely childhood vaccination

The Australian Government has launched a new public awareness campaign.

Top up your COVID-19 protection

The Australian Government has launched a new advertising campaign to encourage adults to get a COVID-19 booster if it has been 6 months or more since their last COVID-19 vaccination or infection.

New provider resources about influenza vaccination for First Nations’ people

Vaccination providers play an important role in offering influenza vaccines for First Nations people. New resources are now available to support vaccination providers in having conversations with First Nations’ families.

2023 National Immunisation Program influenza vaccination – Early advice for vaccination providers

Vaccination against influenza (flu) continues to be important this year. Vaccination is our best defence against flu viruses.

Release of the Australian Government's response to the Review of COVID-19 Vaccine and Treatment Purchasing and Procurement

The Australian Government has responded to the Halton review into COVID-19 vaccine and treatment procurement.

ATAGI recommendations on use of the Moderna bivalent (Original/Omicron BA.4/5) COVID-19 vaccine

Recommendations from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) on the use of the Moderna bivalent (Original/Omicron BA.4/5) COVID-19 vaccine.

Protecting Older Australians – COVID-19 Update 14 February 2023

In this issue: Message from the Ministers to Aged Care Providers, ATAGI advice on 2023 COVID-19 vaccine booster, Webinar – aged care COVID-19 update and more.

ATAGI recommendations on use of the Pfizer bivalent (Original/Omicron BA.4/5) COVID-19 vaccine

Recommendations from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) on the use of the Pfizer bivalent (Original/Omicron BA.4/5) COVID-19 vaccine.

ATAGI 2023 booster advice

Recommendations from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) regarding COVID-19 boosters in 2023. These recommendations replace previous ATAGI COVID-19 vaccine booster advice.

Changes to HPV vaccine dose schedule for young Australians

From 6 February 2023 the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine schedule will become a single dose schedule. Catch-up under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) will also be extended to all Australians 25 years and under.

Expressions of interest to join the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation

We are seeking expressions of interest to fill 7 vacancies on the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI), commencing 1 July 2023. Consider applying if you are a clinical professional, researcher, service delivery expert or consumer expert.

Mandatory reporting of Japanese encephalitis virus vaccines to the Australian Immunisation Register began on 21 December 2022

From 21 December 2022, vaccination providers must report all Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) vaccines administered to the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR).

A message from Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer Alison McMillan – October 2022

A newsletter from Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer Alison McMillan with updates from the nursing and midwifery sector, some personal priorities and highlights, and an insight on what's happening across the Department of Health and Aged Care.

ATAGI recommendations on use of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 6 months to 4 years

Recommendations from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) on the use of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 6 months to 4 years (Pfizer 6 months to 4 years).

ATAGI recommendations on use of the Pfizer bivalent (Original/Omicron BA.1) COVID-19 vaccine

Recommendations from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) the Pfizer bivalent (Original/Omicron BA.1) COVID-19 vaccine.

ATAGI update on boosters following COVID-19 meeting on 11 November 2022

An update from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) following their meeting on 11 November 2022.

Protecting Older Australians – COVID-19 update – 28 October 2022

Read the latest update to the aged care sector on new COVID-19 information, including PPE pre-deployment for residential aged care homes and influenza vaccinations.

ATAGI recommendations for a booster dose of the paediatric Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in children aged 5 to 11 years

Recommendations from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) on Pfizer booster doses for children aged 5 to 11 years.

Cancer Australia – Yarn for Life

Cancer Australia’s Yarn for Life is the first national cancer awareness campaign developed for and by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

ATAGI recommend the COVID-19 vaccination for some children aged 6 months to under 5 years

Australia’s immunisation experts, the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation, recommend COVID-19 vaccination for some children aged 6 months to under 5 years who have an increased risk of getting very sick from COVID-19. The COVID-19 vaccination will help reduce this risk.

Take a Step

Did you know that in Australia, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people 24 years and under are 3 times more likely than other young people to die by suicide?

Protecting Older Australians – COVID-19 update – 14 September 2022

Read the latest update to the aged care sector on new COVID-19 information, including COVID-19 vaccines.

ATAGI update following COVID-19 meeting – 7 September 2022

An update from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) following their meeting on 7 September 2022. ATAGI are now meeting every fortnight on COVID-19 related issues.

ATAGI statement on use of the Moderna bivalent Original/Omicron vaccine

A statement from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) regarding COVID-19 Moderna Spikevax Bivalent Original/Omicron BA.1 vaccine.

AHPPC Statement – reduced isolation period for COVID-19 cases

The Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) notes the need for a proportionate approach to isolation for those with COVID‑19 infections at this stage of the pandemic.

ATAGI update following weekly COVID-19 meeting – 31 August 2022

An update from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) following their weekly meeting on 31 August 2022.

National Cabinet Statement on COVID-19 settings

The following statement was released following the conclusion of National Cabinet on Wednesday 31 August 2022.

ATAGI update following weekly COVID-19 meeting – 24 August 2022

An update from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) following their weekly meeting on 24 August 2022.

Novavax vaccine for adolescents aged 12–17 years

Recommendations from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) on the use of the Novavax vaccine for adolescents aged 12-17 years.

The new Teeny Tiny Stevies song 'I got you'

A new children’s song has been created to help remind families how to avoid viral infections like COVID-19.

ATAGI recommends COVID-19 vaccine use in some children aged 6 months to 4 years

From 5 September 2022, the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) recommends COVID-19 vaccination for children aged 6 months to 4 years who are severely immunocompromised, have a disability, or have complex and/or multiple health conditions.

ATAGI update following weekly COVID-19 meeting – 3 August 2022

An update from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) following their weekly meeting on 3 August 2022

ATAGI recommendations on COVID-19 vaccine use in children aged 6 months to <5 years

Recommendations from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) COVID-19 vaccine use in children.

ATAGI update following weekly COVID-19 meeting – 27 July 2022

An update from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) following their weekly meeting on 27 July 2022.

ATAGI update following weekly COVID-19 meeting – 20 July 2022

An update from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) following their weekly meeting on 20 July 2022.

Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly's interview on ABC News Breakfast on 20 July 2022

Read the transcript of Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly's interview on ABC News Breakfast on 20 July 2022.

Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly's interview on Today Show on 20 July 2022

Read the transcript of Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly's interview with Karl Stefanovic and Allison Langdon on Today Show on 20 July 2022.

Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly's interview on Sunrise on 20 July 2022

Read the transcript of Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly's interview with Sunrise on 20 July 2022

Press conference with Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly and Minister Mark Butler

Read the transcript of the press conference with Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly and Minister Mark Butler on Tuesday 19 July 2022.

COVID-19 update from the Chief Medical Officer, Professor Paul Kelly

A statement by Australia's Chief Medical Officer, Professor Paul Kelly regarding the increase in cases of the new BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants of the COVID-19 Omicron strain.

ATAGI update following weekly COVID-19 meeting – 13 July 2022

An update from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) following their weekly meeting on 13 July 2022

ATAGI update following weekly COVID-19 meeting – 6 July 2022

An update from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) following their weekly meeting on 6 July 2022.

National Cabinet Statement

See the below statement, released following the conclusion of National Cabinet on Saturday 16 July 2022.

Chief Medical Officer’s statement on standard of care on COVID-19 oral antiviral treatments in residential aged care facilities

A statement from Professor Paul Kelly, Australian Government Chief Medical Officer, about the standard of care on COVID-19 oral antiviral treatments in residential aged care facilities.

Kids will be kids

The Australian Government has launched the latest phase of the COVID-19 campaign to encourage parents of children aged 5 to 15 to book their child’s COVID-19 vaccination.

Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly's interview on ABC News Breakfast on 12 July 2022

Read the transcript of Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly's interview with Lisa Miller on ABC News Breakfast on 12 July 2022.

Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly's interview on ABC News Radio on 12 July 2022

Read the transcript of Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly's interview with Thomas Oriti on ABC News Radio on 12 July 2022.

Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly's interview on the Today Show on 12 July 2022

Read the transcript of Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly's interview with Karl Stefanovic and Allison Langdon on the Today Show on 12 July 2022

Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly's interview on Sunrise on 12 July 2022

Read the transcript of Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly's interview with Sunrise on 12 July 2022

COVID-19 oral treatment eligibility expanded from 11 July 2022

From 11 July 2022, more Australians at higher risk of developing severe COVID-19 will be able to access oral antiviral treatments following new recommendations from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee.

AHPPC statement on COVID-19 winter update and ongoing health protection measures to support our community

The Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) continues to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic situation, drawing upon international and local evidence.

ATAGI updated recommendations for a winter dose of COVID-19 vaccine

Recommendations from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) on the COVID-19 vaccine winter dose.

ATAGI update following weekly COVID-19 meeting – 1 June 2022

An update from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) following their weekly meeting on 1 June 2022.

ATAGI update following weekly COVID-19 meeting – 29 June 2022

An update from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) following their weekly meeting on 29 June 2022.

Protecting Older Australians – COVID-19 update 24 June 2022

In this edition: Extension of Australian Defence Force support for residential aged care and information on COVID-19 Aged Care Support grants.

Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly's interview on Sky News Live on 24 June 2022

Read the transcript of Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly's interview with Peter Stefanovic on Sky News Live on 24 June 2022.

Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly's interview on the Today Show on 24 June 2022

Read the transcript of Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly's interview with Alex Cullen on the Today Show on 24 June 2022

ATAGI recommendations on first booster dose in adolescents aged 12-15 years

Recommendations from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) on the use of a first booster dose in adolescents aged 12-15 years.

Australians urged to get vaccinated against influenza

This year, for the first time, Australia will be managing COVID-19 and an influenza season. As we move into the winter 2022 season it is increasingly important that people protect themselves from both COVID-19 and influenza.

Top 3 questions – Flu vaccination & pregnancy with Professor Alison McMillan

Hear from Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer, Professor Alison McMillan on why it’s important to get your flu vaccine when you’re pregnant.

Award-winning healthcare for Western Desert communities

The Purple House story began with paintings by Papunya Tula artists from Walungurru and Kiwirrikurra.

Are you a young dad? Stay on track with this new resource

Stayin’ On Track is an online resource space offering mentorship and support for young Aboriginal dads to stay on track and be good dads.

Be Brave. Make Change.

National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements. It is also time to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

Book your COVID-19 vaccine winter dose

No matter where you live, whether you’re up north in the sun, or down south with the cold, it is recommended that some people receive a winter dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Protecting Older Australians – COVID-19 update 27 May 2022

In this issue edition: Winter preparedness, Reminders about vaccinations for influenza and COVID-19 and Aged Care Emergency and Crisis Management Training.

ATAGI update following weekly COVID-19 meeting – 25 May 2022

An update from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) following their weekly meeting on 25 May 2022.

Influenza and COVID-19 vaccination provide important protection this winter

A statement from Australia's acting Chief Medical Officer, Dr Sonya Bennett, about managing COVID-19 and an influenza season.

Top 3 with Dr Lucas De Toca – Winter Preparedness

Dr Lucas De Toca, COVID-19 Primary Care Response First Assistant Secretary, answers the Top Three questions across our channels.

Expanded ATAGI recommendations on winter COVID-19 booster doses for people at increased risk of severe COVID-19

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) have expanded their recommendations on the use of additional (booster) doses of COVID-19 vaccine.

ATAGI update following weekly COVID-19 meeting – 18 May 2022

An update from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) following their weekly meeting on 18 May 2022.

COVID-19 vaccination information kiosks open now in (NSW, Qld, Vic, NT and SA)

COVID-19 vaccination information kiosks are now open in shopping centres and events in (NSW, Qld, Vic, NT and SA) to help you book a vaccination appointment.

Top 3 questions – What is long COVID, is it becoming more common, do vaccines reduce your chance of getting it

Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Professor Michael Kidd, answers the Top Three questions across our channels.

Protecting Older Australians – COVID-19 update 19 May 2022

In this issue edition: Leadership and , for RACFs webinar, Winter preparedness webinar series, Pulse Oximeters for home care clients and NSW Health guidance.

COVID-19 vaccination information kiosks open now in (NSW, QLD, VIC, SA and NT)

COVID-19 vaccination information kiosks are now open in shopping centres and events in (NSW, QLD, VIC, SA and NT) to help you book a vaccination appointment.

Australian Immunisation Handbook website upgrade

New features will be available soon as part of an upgrade to the Australian Immunisation Handbook website and mobile app.

ATAGI update following weekly COVID-19 meeting – 11 May 2022

An update from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) following their weekly meeting on 11 May 2022.

Top 3 with Dr Lucas De Toca – Flu vaccination, what is in it and how safe it is

Dr Lucas De Toca, COVID-19 Primary Care Response First Assistant Secretary, answers the Top Three questions across our channels.

ATAGI update following weekly COVID-19 meeting – 4 May 2022

An update from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) following their weekly meeting on 4 May 2022.

COVID-19 vaccination information kiosks open now in (NSW, QLD, VIC, NT and SA)

COVID-19 vaccination information kiosks are now open in shopping centres and events in (NSW, QLD, VIC, NT and SA) to help you book a vaccination appointment.

Protecting Older Australians – COVID-19 Update 9 May 2022

In this issue edition: leadership and governance webinar for RACFs, state and territory directions, supporting visitation in RACFs - resources.

Top 3 questions – COVID treatments, close contact rules & COVIDSafe aged care visits

Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Professor Michael Kidd, answers the Top Three questions across our channels.

Protecting Older Australians – COVID-19 update 2 May 2022

In this issue: Webinar update on Aged Care and COVID-19 and resources for providers on changed reporting requirements on COVID-19 vaccination.

Top 3 questions – Flu season

Dr Lucas De Toca, COVID-19 Primary Care Response First Assistant Secretary, answers the Top Three questions across our channels.

Australian community urged to get vaccinated against influenza update from the Acting CMO Dr Sonya Bennett

A joint statement from the Acting Australian Government Chief Medical Officer, Dr Sonya Bennett, and the Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer, Professor Alison McMillan, regarding the importance of flu vaccinations this winter.

COVID-19 vaccination information kiosks open now in (NSW, QLD, VIC, NT and SA)

COVID-19 vaccination information kiosks are now open in shopping centres and events in (NSW, QLD, VIC, NT and SA) to help you book a vaccination appointment.

ATAGI update following weekly COVID-19 meeting – 27 April 2022

An update from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) following their weekly meeting on 27 April 2022.

COVID-19 vaccination information kiosks open now in (VIC, NSW,QLD and SA)

COVID-19 vaccination information kiosks are now open in shopping centres and events in (VIC, NSW, QLD and SA) to help you book a vaccination appointment.

Routine childhood immunisation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children

Campaign launched to encourage parents and carers to get their kids vaccinated on time for the best protection.

Protecting Older Australians – COVID-19 update 22 April 2022

In this issue: Winter Preparedness webinar, COVID-19 winter dose program in residential aged care, Upcoming webinar for providers, Grant opportunity for aged care workers and Ventilation strategies to reduce COVID-19 transmission in residential aged care facilities.

ATAGI update following weekly COVID-19 meeting – 20 April 2022

An update from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) following their weekly meeting on 20 April 2022.

Dr Aleeta explains why it’s important for kids to get vaccinated against COVID-19

Dr Aleeta Fejo, Aboriginal GP and Senior Doctor, answers important questions about children and the COVID-19 vaccines, and explains why it's important for kids to get vaccinated.

COVID-19 vaccines do not cause infertility

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (the TGA) has found no evidence that COVID-19 vaccines cause infertility in males or females, or any future infertility in children.

Why is it recommended to get a COVID-19 booster?

Having two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine means you have very good protection, especially against severe disease, but a booster dose will make sure the protection from the first two doses is even stronger and longer lasting.

COVID-19 vaccination information kiosks open now in NSW, Vic and Qld

COVID-19 vaccination information kiosks are now open in shopping centres and events in New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland to help you book a vaccination appointment.

Help stop the flu in 2022

Annual vaccination is the most important measure to prevent influenza and its complications. The influenza vaccine is recommended for all individuals aged 6 months and over.
Last updated:
Tags: 

Help us improve health.gov.au

If you would like a response please use the enquiries form instead.