COVID-19 vaccines to move into the National Immunisation Program
19 Aug 2026
Under the new arrangements, COVID-19 vaccines funded through the NIP will no longer be available as a universal program. Free vaccination will instead focus on people at higher risk of severe COVID-19.
From 1 October, free COVID-19 vaccines will be available to:
- Adults aged 75 years and over, with one dose every six months
- Adults aged 65 to 74 years, with one dose every 12 months
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 to 74 years, with one dose every 12 months
- Adults aged 18 years and over with severe immunocompromise, with one dose every 12 months
Until 1 October, providers should continue to administer COVID-19 vaccines under the current NCVP arrangements and follow the Australian Immunisation Handbook.
The final ordering window under the NCVP will close on 28 August. Providers should place any required orders before this date, as further ordering will not be available until after the transition.
COVID-19 vaccines to move into the National Immunisation Program
Source: Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing — COVID-19 vaccines update for immunisation providers.