immunisation
Vaccination, or immunisation, is one of the safest and most effective ways to protect yourself, your family and your community from serious disease. It helps your body build protection against harmful diseases before you come into contact with them, and reduces your risk of getting sick and helps stop diseases spreading to others who may be more vulnerable. Many vaccines are free under the National Immunisation Program.
Who should get vaccinated?
Different vaccines are recommended at different life stages and for certain health or work situations. Check what’s recommended for:
- Babies and children – routine childhood vaccines
- Teens and young adults – school-based vaccines and catch-ups
- Adults – boosters and travel needs
- Pregnant people – vaccines that protect you and your baby
- Older adults – vaccines to reduce complications from flu, pneumonia and shingles
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples – some additional recommended vaccines
If you have a long-term health condition or you work in healthcare, aged care, childcare, hospitality or other public-facing roles, talk to your GP or pharmacist about extra protection.
What’s free?
Many vaccines are funded through the National Immunisation Program (NIP). Your GP or pharmacist can tell you which ones are free for you or your child and which may have a cost.
