Flu Vaccines

Immunising against the influenza virus saves lives and helps lower the risk of diagnostic uncertainty between the flu and COVID. Detailed answers to frequently asked questions about influenza vaccine can be found here.

There are two groups of influenza vaccines available in 2023:

1) Government-funded Flu Vaccine which is Free for the following eligible groups:

• People aged 65 years and over

  1. Pregnant women

  2. Children under 5 years old

  3. Aboriginal people

  4. Medically at risk groups (explained below)

2) Private Flu Vaccine : for those who are between 5 and 65 years old. This is not government funded and provided by us at a cost of $25

• If you identify as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander you are eligible at any age for a government funded vaccine.
• If you have one of the following medical conditions, you are eligible under the government funded seasonal influenza program

Please note that the Commonwealth and State governments have very strict criteria around who is eligible for government funded vaccines. You will not be provided with a free vaccine unless you fall into one of the following categories:

1. patients with cardiac disease, including cyanotic congenital heart disease, coronary artery disease and congestive heart failure.
2. patients with chronic respiratory conditions, including suppurative lung disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and severe asthma (note that this is defined as needed those needing multiple medications or frequent medical visits);
3. patients without a functioning spleen;
4. patients who are immunocompromised; including with HIV; cancer; chronic steroid (cortisone) use; solid organ transplant; bone marrow or stem cell transplant;
5. patients with chronic neurological conditions including epilepsy, spinal cord disorders, neuromuscular disorders;
6. patients who any type of diabetes;
7. pregnant women (can be given at any stage of the pregnancy);
8. patients with metabolic disorders;
9. patients with chronic renal failure; and
10. children between the ages of 6 months to 10 years on chronic aspirin therapy.

You can see the Frequently asked questions about Influenza HERE .