About winter vaccinations
Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself against common winter respiratory viruses, including influenza (flu), COVID‑19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
By staying up to date with recommended vaccinations, you can help reduce your risk of serious illness and stay well for the moments that matter most.
People aged 65 years and over have a higher risk of severe illness and hospitalisation from influenza, COVID‑19 and RSV.
Influenza and COVID‑19 viruses continue to change, which is why it is important to stay up to date with recommended vaccinations.
To help protect people at higher risk, the National Immunisation Program (NIP) offers vaccinations free to eligible people of all ages across Australia, including older adults. People who hold or are eligible for a Medicare card can access these free vaccines through participating health services.
COVID-19 vaccines are free for everyone in Australia regardless of Medicare or visa status.
Speak with your health professional and book your vaccinations today.
About influenza (flu)
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious viral infection that is different from the common cold.
While flu can affect people of all ages, the risk of severe illness increases after the age of 65.
Because influenza viruses change each year, an annual flu vaccination is recommended ahead of the winter season.
Flu vaccinations are free under the National Immunisation Program for:
- people aged 65 and over, who hold or are eligible for a Medicare card
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over.
About COVID-19
COVID-19 is a highly contagious respiratory disease that spreads through respiratory droplets and airborne particles.
Regular COVID-19 vaccinations are the best way to protect yourself against serious illness, hospitalisation and death.
Vaccinations are especially important for people aged 65 years or over.
We recommend people aged 65 to 74 years get a COVID-19 vaccination every 12 months. COVID-19 vaccines are free.
About RSV
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common, highly contagious virus that infects the airways and lungs. It spreads through droplets when an infected person talks, coughs or sneezes.
RSV can be particularly serious for older people over 75 years and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults.
Vaccination is a safe and effective way to reduce the risk of severe illness caused by RSV.
The RSV vaccine is recommended and free, from 15 May 2026, under the National Immunisation Program for:
- people aged 75 years and over, who hold or are eligible for a Medicare card
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 years and over.
Find the right time to vaccinate
It is never too late to vaccinate but vaccination is recommended before the cooler months when respiratory viruses are more common.
Protection from vaccination is strongest in the first 3 to 4 months after you are vaccinated.
Influenza and RSV seasons can start as early as March in Australia, peaking between June and September.
Getting vaccinated before winter gives you the best protection.
You can safely get influenza, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines at the same appointment or separately with other recommended vaccinations. Speak with your doctor about your eligibility for other recommended free NIP vaccines. You don’t need to wait 6 months after a COVID-19 infection to get a dose.
Your health professional can help you decide the best timing.
Where to get vaccinated
You can get your vaccines from:
- general practices
- local council immunisation clinics (available in some states and territories)
- community health centres
- Aboriginal Medical Services
- participating pharmacies
- residential aged care vaccination providers for people living in aged care.
These providers can give free influenza (flu), COVID‑19 and RSV vaccines to eligible people.
The healthdirect service finder can help you find a vaccine provider near you. This also shows clinics with features like ramp access and quiet spaces.
Speak with your GP, pharmacist or health professional about which vaccines you need and where to get them.
Vaccine safety and side effects
Vaccines used in Australia are thoroughly tested for safety and effectiveness and are closely monitored. Most people experience only mild side effects following vaccination, such as a sore arm or feeling tired for a short time. Serious side effects are rare.
For more information on vaccine safety visit Vaccine safety and possible side effects of immunisation.
Checking vaccination history
If you are unsure which vaccines you have already had, you can get your Immunisation History Statement from the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR):
- by signing in to your Medicare online account on myGov or using the myGov app
- by calling Services Australia on 1800 653 809 to request a copy
- by asking your vaccination provider to print a copy for you
Your health professional will record your vaccinations on the AIR.
For more information on checking vaccination history see: Check immunisation history.