COVID-19 immunisation

About COVID-19 vaccination

COVID-19 is a highly contagious infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It can cause symptoms ranging from a mild illness to serious disease that may require hospital care.

While COVID-19 can affect people of all ages, the risk of severe illness is higher for:

• older adults
• older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
• people who are severely immunocompromised
• people with certain underlying medical conditions.

Vaccination helps protect against severe illness, hospitalisation and death from COVID-19.

Who should receive a COVID-19 vaccine?

From 1 October 2026, free COVID-19 vaccines will be available through the National Immunisation Program for:

• adults aged 75 years and over - recommended every 6 months
• adults aged 65 to 74 years - recommended every 12 months
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 to 74 years - recommended every 12 months
• adults aged 18 years and over with severe immunocompromise - recommended every 12 months.

Some vaccination providers may charge a consultation or administration fee. Ask about any fees when making your appointment.

If you are not eligible for a free vaccine under the NIP, you may be able to purchase one privately. Talk to your GP or healthcare provider to find out if this is recommended for you.

Where to get the COVID-19 vaccine

In Victoria the most common way people access the COVID-19 vaccine is from their doctor (GP) or a pharmacist immuniser.

Visit the Who provides immunisations in Victoria page for more information.

When to get the COVID 19 vaccine

ATAGI recommends adults aged 75 years and over to receive a COVID-19 vaccine every 6 months.

For all other eligible groups, a COVID-19 vaccine is recommended every 12 months.

Can you have the COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccines on the same day?

Yes. The COVID-19 vaccine can be given on the same day with other vaccines. This includes whooping cough, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), pneumococcal, shingles (Shingrix®) and influenza vaccines.

During your appointment

If you have any concerns about your health and getting the COVID-19 vaccine you should speak to a GP or health professional.

Tell your vaccination provider if:

• you are allergic to any ingredients in a COVID-19 vaccine
• you have had a severe allergic reaction to a vaccine or medicine in the past.

After your vaccination, you will be asked to wait for 15 minutes. This helps make sure you are feeling well and allows staff to assist if needed.

For a couple of days after a vaccine, you might experience:

• pain, redness or swelling where you had the injection
• muscle aches
• headache
• fever.

These side effects are mild and a sign the vaccine is working. Speak to your GP or healthcare provider if they become severe or are not going away after a few days.

All vaccines have a rare risk of severe side effects. Your provider will share what to watch for. If you experience these side effects, you should talk to a GP or healthcare provider immediately.

Where to get help

• In an emergency, always call triple zero (000)
• Emergency department of your nearest hospital
• Your GP (doctor)
• Your local council immunisation service – visit Know Your Council
• NURSE-ON-CALL Tel. 1300 60 60 24 – for expert health information and advice (24 hours, 7 days)