Key facts
- Some vaccines are recommended at specific ages for the best protection.
- You may need booster doses for some of the free vaccines.
- Vaccine requirements may vary based on whether or not you have any medical risk conditions.
Who can get the vaccines
Older people can receive these vaccines for free through the National Immunisation Program (NIP) if they have a Medicare card or are eligible for one.
The age you can get a free vaccine depends on the disease it protects against. Some vaccines are available from age 65, while others are recommended later in life.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people may be eligible for some vaccines at younger ages through the NIP.
People with medical risk conditions may need additional vaccines or a different vaccination schedule. Talk to your health professional about what vaccines are recommended for you.
How the vaccines are given
Older adults get the free vaccines on the NIP schedule as an injection. They are usually given into a muscle (intramuscularly) or under the skin (subcutaneously).
Why some vaccines need multiple doses
Some vaccines need more than one dose to give the best possible protection. Depending on the vaccine, this is to either:
- boost your immunity (sometimes called a booster shot)
- protect against a disease that changes over time, such as influenza (the flu) or COVID-19.
The influenza (flu) virus changes each year, so an annual flu vaccine is recommended for ongoing protection.
Are the vaccines safe
The free NIP vaccines for older adults are safe. They go through:
- a rigorous testing process to be approved for use in Australia
- a listing process to be approved for the NIP
- continuous safety monitoring once in use.
How the vaccines work
When you get a vaccine, your body’s immune system creates antibodies for protection. If you come into contact with that disease in the future, your immune system remembers it and responds quickly.
Most vaccines take about 2 to 3 weeks to provide immunity.
To find out more, see:
Diseases the vaccines protect against
The NIP schedule provides free vaccines for older adults that protect against:
These vaccines are provided free through the NIP because they help protect older adults who are at increased risk of serious illness from these diseases.
Benefits and risks of the vaccines
You may have side effects after getting the free vaccines, but these are almost always mild.
Without the vaccines, you could be at risk of getting seriously ill with ongoing complications. Some diseases like flu (influenza) can even cause death.
Getting a disease is likely to be more serious than the risks of the vaccine. For example:
- shingles can cause temporary or permanent vision loss (when in the eye area)
- the flu can cause serious complications like inflammation of the:
- brain (encephalitis)
- heart muscle (myocarditis)
- lining of the heart (pericarditis).
Extra vaccines that are not free
The free vaccines on the schedule are the most essential vaccines to protect older people.
Your health professional may recommend other vaccines that are not free. You can buy these privately.
Possible side effects
Each vaccine has possible side effects. Most are mild, but occasionally there can be serious side effects.
Common side effects
Most side effects are mild and usually go away in a few days. Find out about possible side effects and how to manage them.
If you are concerned, speak to a doctor for advice. Most people who have reactions can safely have more vaccines. If needed, your doctor may refer you for more testing or take precautions before the next vaccine.
Very rare side effects
Serious side effects, like a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) are very rare. These need medical attention straight away.
Next steps
Contact a health professional if you have any questions or to make a vaccination appointment.
Find a health professional in your area or call your state or territory health department.
Some providers charge a consultation fee to give vaccines, including free ones. Check before you make an appointment.
More information
- Read the adult vaccinations brochure.
- View our NIP resources.
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