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Primary course
Your primary course is the first time you receive a COVID-19 vaccine.
Most people now only need 1 dose of a COVID-19 vaccine as their primary course. You may need 2 doses if you are at high risk of severe illness.
Talk to your doctor (GP) or healthcare provider to decide how many primary course doses you need. Most Australians have already received their primary course of vaccination.
Booster dose
Booster doses, also known as additional doses, can be given after a primary vaccination course. They are the best way to maintain your protection against severe illness, hospitalisation and death from COVID-19. Booster doses are especially important for anyone aged 65 years or older and people at higher risk of severe COVID-19.
Stay protected against COVID-19 with the latest vaccination advice. Refer to Australian Government COVID-19 vaccine advice and recommendations for up-to-date guidance on primary and booster doses.
As with all vaccinations, people are encouraged to discuss the vaccine options available to them with their GP or healthcare provider.
Who can get vaccinated?
COVID-19 vaccine is free for all Victorians, including those without a Medicare card. Find a COVID-19 immunisation provider near you using the Health Direct Service Finder. Please note, some providers may charge an administration or consultation fee. Be sure to check if this applies to you.
What if you're pregnant?
If you’re pregnant, you’re at higher risk of becoming very sick with COVID-19. If you are eligible for a booster, you can get vaccinated at any point during pregnancy.
If you’re trying to get pregnant or are breastfeeding, you can also get vaccinated.
Discuss your vaccination requirements with your GP or healthcare provider.
People with individual health needs
Some children and adults have individual health needs that affect which vaccine they get and how many doses. They may also be able to get additional support to get vaccinated. These groups should speak to their GP or specialist.
They include children and adults with:
- a disability
- a severely compromised immune system
- complex or multiple health conditions.
Before 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.
Bring your appointment confirmation, and a Medicare Card or Individual Healthcare Identifier (IHI) number if you have them.
Tell your provider if you are allergic to any ingredients in any COVID-19 vaccine or have had a severe allergic reaction to other vaccines or medicines in the past.
After your appointment
You will be asked to wait 15 minutes after getting a vaccine. This is to make sure you are feeling okay, and the provider can respond to any issues.
For a couple of days after a vaccine you might experience:
- pain where you had the injection
- muscle ache
- 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
- Visit your GP (doctor)
- Please keep Triple Zero (000) for emergencies only
This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:
