As a pharmacist, vaccinations are one of the most important ways I help people protect their health and prevent serious illness. Vaccinations are the simplest and most effective tools we have to protect not only ourselves, but also our families and the wider community.
I often speak with people who have questions about how vaccines work, whether they need certain vaccinations, or when they should be getting them. It’s completely normal to have questions, and understanding your options can help you feel more confident about making decisions for your health.
Staying up to date with recommended vaccinations can help protect people and their families at every stage of life, from childhood through to adulthood and older age. It also plays an important role in reducing the spread of preventable diseases within the community.
This guide covers some of the most common vaccines available in Australia, what they protect against, who may need them, when they’re recommended, and how you can access them. My aim is to give you the information you need to feel confident about your vaccination choices and know that support is always available at your local Complete Care Pharmacy.
Key Facts
- Vaccination helps protect you and your community by training your immune system to recognise and fight specific diseases before you’re exposed to them.
- For some vaccine-preventable diseases, high vaccination coverage can help build herd immunity and protect those most at risk, including babies, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
- Many important vaccines are funded under the National Immunisation Program (NIP), including protection against diseases like hepatitis B, whooping cough (pertussis), meningococcal disease, measles, and influenza.
- Vaccinations follow a schedule across your lifetime, starting from birth, continuing through childhood and adolescence, and recommended again in older adulthood.
- Staying up to date with your vaccinations is important at every age, even if you’re healthy, to help reduce the spread of preventable diseases in the community.
- Getting vaccinated is now more convenient than ever, with many vaccines available not only through GPs and clinics, but also at your nearest Complete Care Pharmacy.
Common Vaccines Explained
As a pharmacist, I often speak with people who have questions about which vaccines they need, when they should get them, and how they help protect their health. Understanding the basics can make it easier to feel confident about your vaccination choices.
Below is a simple guide to some of the most common vaccines, what they protect against, and when they may be recommended.
Flu Vaccine (Influenza)
The flu vaccine helps protect against influenza — a contagious respiratory infection that can cause symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, body aches and extreme tiredness.
While many people recover from the flu within a week or two, it can sometimes lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, particularly in older adults, young children, pregnant people and those with certain health conditions.
When Should You Get the Flu Vaccine?
Flu viruses can change over time, which is why a new flu vaccine is developed each year to help protect against the strains expected to circulate. In Australia, annual flu vaccination is recommended, particularly before winter when flu cases typically increase.
Is There a Needle-Free Flu Vaccine?
Yes. If your child is nervous about needles, you can ask your local Complete Care Pharmacy team about the intranasal flu vaccine. Given as a nasal spray rather than an injection, it may be a suitable option for some children.
In Australia, children aged 2 to under 18 years may be able to receive their flu vaccine as a nasal spray instead of an injection. However, it may not be appropriate for every child, so it’s important to speak with your local pharmacist. We can talk through your child’s age and health and help you understand whether the nasal spray is right for them.
Pharmacist Tip: Wondering whether the nasal spray could be right for your child? Come and chat with our friendly team at your local Complete Care Pharmacy. We can answer your questions, talk through your child’s options and, where available, provide the intranasal flu vaccine.
Who Is Eligible for a Free Flu Vaccine?
The flu vaccine is available free under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for eligible groups, including:
- People aged 65 years and over
- Pregnant people
- Children aged 6 months to under 5 years
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over
- People with certain medical conditions that increase their risk of complications
If you’re not eligible for a free flu vaccine, you can still receive one privately through pharmacies, GPs and other vaccination providers.
Book Your Flu Shot NowCOVID-19 Vaccine
COVID-19 vaccination helps reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalisation and complications, especially for people at higher risk. While vaccination may not completely prevent infection, it provides important protection against serious disease.
Who May Benefit Most From COVID-19 Vaccination?
COVID-19 vaccination is particularly important for people at higher risk of severe illness, including:
- Older adults
- People with certain chronic health conditions
- Pregnant people
Book Your COVID-19 Vaccine NowPharmacist Tip: Pop into your nearest Complete Care Pharmacy and we can help you check when you may be due for your next COVID-19 vaccination. We’re also here to answer any questions you have about vaccination and help you understand your options.
RSV Vaccine (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is a common respiratory virus that often causes mild cold-like symptoms. However, for some people, it can lead to more serious illness, particularly older adults, infants and people with certain health conditions.
When Is the RSV Vaccine Recommended?
RSV vaccination is recommended during each pregnancy to help protect newborn babies, ideally between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy.
It is also recommended for all adults aged 75 years and over, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults aged 60 years and over, and some other adults at increased risk of severe RSV illness.
The RSV vaccine is currently free under the National Immunisation Program for:
- Pregnant women from 28 weeks of pregnancy
- Adults aged 75 years and over
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults aged 60 years and over
Other people may be able to receive an RSV vaccine privately, depending on their age, health and individual risk factors.
Book Your RSV Vaccine TodayWorth Noting: Vaccination recommendations can change depending on your age and personal health needs. If you’re unsure whether the RSV vaccine may be suitable for you or a family member, visit your nearest Complete Care Pharmacy. Our team can help answer your questions and guide you on the next steps.
Shingles Vaccine
Shingles is a painful rash caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus (varicella-zoster virus), which can remain inactive in your body after you’ve recovered from chickenpox.
The risk of developing shingles increases as we get older, and some people may experience ongoing nerve pain even after the rash has cleared.
Who Should Get the Shingles Vaccine?
Shingles vaccination is generally recommended for older adults and some people who have a higher risk of complications. For eligible adults, the shingles vaccine is usually given as a two-dose course.
The shingles vaccine may be available free for eligible Australians through the National Immunisation Program (NIP). Other people may still be able to receive it privately. Your pharmacist or GP can help you understand whether you’re eligible and what options are available.
Book Your Shingles Vaccine NowWhooping Cough (Pertussis) Vaccine
Whooping cough (pertussis) is a highly contagious respiratory infection that can cause severe coughing fits. It can be especially dangerous for young babies, who are at the greatest risk of serious complications.
Protection against whooping cough is provided through combination vaccines at different life stages.
Who Should Get the Whooping Cough Vaccine?
The whooping cough vaccine may be recommended for:
- Babies as part of routine childhood immunisation
- Children through booster doses
- Pregnant people during each pregnancy to help protect newborn babies
- Adults who may need booster protection, particularly those who are regularly around young infants
Booster recommendations depend on your age, health, vaccination history and risk of exposure. I often speak with people who aren’t sure when they’re due for their next whooping cough vaccine. If you have questions, visit your local Complete Care Pharmacy and our team can help review your vaccination history and guide you on the next steps.
Book Your Pertussis Vaccine NowMMR Vaccine (Measles, Mumps and Rubella)
The MMR vaccine helps protect against three highly contagious viral infections: measles, mumps and rubella. These illnesses can spread easily, but vaccination provides important protection by helping your immune system recognise and respond to these viruses.
The MMR vaccine protects against:
- Measles — which can cause serious complications such as pneumonia and brain inflammation
- Mumps — which can cause swelling of the salivary glands and other complications
- Rubella — which can be particularly serious during pregnancy as it can affect an unborn baby
Two doses of the MMR vaccine are usually recommended for full protection, with doses given during childhood according to the Australian immunisation schedule.
Who Should Receive the MMR Vaccine?
Children receive MMR vaccination as part of routine immunisation. Adults who are not immune to measles, mumps or rubella may also be recommended to receive the vaccine, particularly before pregnancy or travel.
MMR vaccination is available free for eligible people through the National Immunisation Program (NIP).
Book Your MMR Vaccine NowChickenpox (Varicella) Vaccine
Chickenpox is a contagious viral infection that commonly causes an itchy rash, fever and tiredness. While it is often mild, it can sometimes lead to complications, particularly in adults, pregnant people and those with weakened immune systems.
Chickenpox Vaccine Schedule
The chickenpox vaccine is usually given during childhood as part of routine immunisation. Catch-up vaccination may be available for people who have not had chickenpox or received the vaccine.
Connection Between Chickenpox and Shingles
The virus that causes chickenpox (varicella-zoster virus) can remain inactive in the body after an infection. Years later, it can reactivate and cause shingles. Vaccination helps reduce the risk of chickenpox and its complications by helping your immune system build protection against the virus.
Book Your Chickenpox VaccineHepatitis Vaccines
Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, and some types of hepatitis are caused by viruses that can be prevented through vaccination.
I often speak with people who have questions about hepatitis vaccines and whether they may need them. The two main hepatitis vaccines to know about are hepatitis A and hepatitis B. These vaccines help protect against different types of viral hepatitis and may be recommended at different stages of life or depending on your health, lifestyle and individual circumstances.
Hepatitis A Vaccine
Hepatitis A is usually spread through contaminated food or water and is more common in some countries outside Australia.
Who May Need It?
You may be recommended to receive the hepatitis A vaccine if you:
- Are travelling to countries where hepatitis A is more common
- Have certain health risks or occupational exposure
Hepatitis B Vaccine
Hepatitis B spreads through contact with infected blood and bodily fluids. It can sometimes lead to long-term liver disease.
When Is It Given?
In Australia, babies receive a hepatitis B vaccine shortly after birth to provide early protection. Additional doses may be recommended depending on your age, health risks and vaccination history.
Worth knowing: Some vaccines are combined to protect against more than one disease in a single injection. This can help simplify your vaccination schedule, but the type of vaccine recommended for you will depend on your age, health needs, and vaccination history.
Talk to our friendly team at Complete Care Pharmacy for personalised advice about your vaccination options. We can help you understand which vaccines may be recommended for you based on your individual needs.
Book Your Vaccine NowMeningococcal, Polio and Hib Vaccines
Vaccination has helped make serious diseases such as meningococcal disease, polio and Hib much less common in Australia. However, staying up to date with recommended vaccines remains important to help prevent outbreaks and protect individuals, families and the wider community.
I speak with people who wonder why some vaccines are still recommended for diseases that are now uncommon in Australia. The reason is simple: vaccination helps maintain protection and reduces the risk of these serious infections returning.
Meningococcal Vaccine
Meningococcal disease is a rare but serious infection that can develop quickly and become life-threatening. Vaccines are available to protect against different types of meningococcal bacteria.
Polio Vaccine
Polio has been eliminated in Australia through successful vaccination programs. However, vaccination continues because polio still occurs in some parts of the world, and imported cases remain possible.
Hib Vaccine
Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) can cause serious infections, including meningitis, particularly in young children. The Hib vaccine provides important protection during early childhood.
Book Your Vaccine NowUnsure Which Vaccines You Need?
Your vaccination needs can change throughout your life depending on your age, health, lifestyle, travel plans and previous immunisations. Our expert healthcare professionals at Complete Care Pharmacy can review your immunisation history, answer your questions and provide personalised advice on the vaccination options that best suit your needs and circumstances.
Visit Your Nearest PharmacyWhat Is Vaccination
Vaccination is a simple and effective way to protect yourself and others from infectious diseases. It works by training your immune system to recognise and respond to specific viruses or bacteria before you’re exposed to them in real life.
Vaccines work by giving your immune system a safe way to learn how to recognise and respond to specific germs. Depending on the vaccine, they may contain a weakened or inactive version of a virus or bacterium, a small part of it, or instructions that help your body produce an immune response. This does not cause the disease, but it helps your immune system recognise and respond to the germ in the future.
If you come into contact with that germ in the future, your immune system can recognise it and respond more quickly. This can help reduce the risk or severity of illness and, for some vaccine-preventable diseases, lower the chance of spreading the infection to others.
Did You Know? You can get many recommended vaccinations at your nearest Complete Care Pharmacy, making it a quick and convenient way to stay up to date with your immunisations.
Why Is Vaccination Important and Who Should Be Immunised?
Vaccinations are important at every stage of life. As we age, our immune system changes, and our protection needs can change too. Staying up to date with recommended vaccines helps support your health and provides protection when you need it most.
- Babies and Newborns
Babies are born with some protection passed on from their mother during pregnancy, but this protection naturally decreases over time. Vaccinations help their developing immune system learn how to recognise and fight harmful germs, providing important protection during the early stages of life.
- Children and Adolescents
As children grow, vaccines continue to play an important role in keeping them protected. Some vaccines are given as booster doses, which help remind the immune system how to respond to certain diseases and strengthen protection over time.
Under Australia’s National Immunisation Program, routine childhood vaccinations and boosters are provided at key ages to help children and adolescents maintain protection as they grow and develop.
- Adults and Seniors
While most healthy adults may need fewer routine vaccinations, staying up to date remains an important part of looking after your health. Some vaccines, such as those for influenza and COVID-19, may be recommended regularly as viruses and vaccination advice change over time. Others are given as boosters to maintain protection.
Additional vaccines may also be recommended at different stages of life, including protection against shingles, which occurs when the varicella-zoster virus reactivates after remaining inactive in the body. Some boosters, such as the pertussis (whooping cough) vaccine, can also help protect vulnerable people in the community, including newborns and pregnant people.
- Pregnant People
Vaccination during pregnancy helps protect both the pregnant person and their baby. When a pregnant person receives certain vaccines, their immune system produces protective antibodies that can pass through the placenta to the baby. This provides the baby with valuable early protection during the first few months of life, when newborns are still building their own immunity.
Pharmacist Tip: Not sure which vaccinations you’ve already had or which ones you’re due for? Drop into your nearest Complete Care Pharmacy and have a chat with us. We can review your vaccination history, help you understand which vaccines may be recommended for you, and answer any questions you have.
Australian Vaccination Schedule (Infants, Children & Adults)
Australia’s vaccination schedule is guided by the National Immunisation Program (NIP), which outlines the vaccines recommended at different stages of life. These recommendations are carefully timed to provide protection when people need it most.
As a pharmacist, I always recommend following the guidance in the Australian Immunisation Handbook and speaking with your healthcare professional about which vaccines are right for you and your family.
Every person’s vaccination needs can be different depending on their age, health, lifestyle and circumstances. Below is a simple guide to the vaccines that are commonly recommended from birth through to adulthood.
Recommended Immunisation Schedule for Infants (Birth to 4 Years)
Babies receive more vaccinations in the first few years of life because their immune systems are still developing, and they are more vulnerable to serious infections during this time. These early vaccines help their bodies learn how to recognise and fight certain diseases, building protection as they grow.
Which Vaccine Is Given at Birth?
In Australia, most newborns receive the hepatitis B vaccine soon after birth. This helps protect against hepatitis B, a serious liver infection that can be passed from mother to baby during birth or through close contact.
Pharmacist Tip: Keeping your baby’s vaccinations up to date is one of the best ways to support their health during these important early years. Your local pharmacist can help answer your questions about the vaccination schedule and guide you on what to expect at each stage.
Vaccination Timeline for Babies
Vaccines are given at regular milestones to build protection gradually as your baby’s immune system develops:
- Birth – Hepatitis B
- 6 weeks – First routine set of infant vaccines
- 4 months – Follow-up doses
- 6 months – Further primary course vaccines
- 12 months – New vaccines introduced as immunity develops
- 18 months – Booster doses
- 4 years – Pre-school boosters before starting school
These appointments are spaced out carefully to help your baby’s immune system build strong, long-lasting protection over time. Following the recommended schedule helps ensure they receive protection when they need it most.
Childhood Vaccination List (School-Aged Children)
By the time children start school, most will have completed their early childhood vaccinations. However, some children may still need additional doses or catch-up vaccines depending on their individual immunisation history.
Catch-up vaccines that may be recommended for children aged 5–12 include:
- Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR)
- Chickenpox (varicella)
- Polio (if catch-up is needed)
- Meningococcal disease (depending on individual risk factors and state or territory programs )
Keeping vaccinations up to date helps provide ongoing protection as children grow, learn and spend more time in school and community settings.
Every child’s vaccination journey can be a little different. If you’re unsure whether your child is up to date, visit us at Complete Care Pharmacy. We can help you review their immunisation history and understand which vaccines may be recommended.
Talk to a Pharmacist NowTeen & Adolescent Vaccinations
The teenage years are an important time to continue building protection against certain diseases. Some vaccines are recommended during this stage to support long-term health and help protect teenagers as they move into adulthood.
- HPV vaccine
- Diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis
- Meningococcal ACWY vaccine
If your teen has missed any scheduled vaccinations, speak with your Complete Care pharmacist. Some catch-up vaccinations may be available through participating pharmacies, depending on their age, the vaccine required and state or territory requirements.
Adult & Senior Vaccinations
Vaccination remains an important part of looking after your health throughout adulthood. Vaccinations that may be recommended depend on your age, health, occupation, travel plans, risk factors and vaccination history, and can include:
- Influenza (flu vaccine)
- COVID-19 vaccine
- Shingles vaccine
- RSV vaccine
- Pneumococcal vaccine
- Hepatitis vaccines
Visit Your Nearest PharmacyPharmacist Tip: If you’re unsure which vaccines you or your family may need, visit us at Complete Care Pharmacy. We can review your vaccination history, answer your questions and provide personalised advice about which vaccines may be suitable for your needs.
Vaccination During Pregnancy
Vaccination is an important part of prenatal care in Australia, helping protect both the pregnant person and their baby during pregnancy and in the early months after birth. Because a baby’s immune system is still developing, this early protection can be especially valuable during the first few months of life.
By getting vaccinated during pregnancy, pregnant people can pass protective antibodies to their baby, helping reduce the risk of serious illness after birth.
The National Immunisation Program (NIP) provides the following recommended vaccines free for eligible people during pregnancy:
- Whooping cough (pertussis) vaccine – preferably between 20 and 32 weeks of each pregnancy
- Influenza (flu) vaccine – at any stage of each pregnancy
- RSV vaccine – recommended between 28 and 36 weeks of each pregnancy
COVID-19 vaccination recommendations during pregnancy depend on previous vaccination, individual risk factors and current government guidance. Speak with your healthcare professional for personalised advice.
One of the biggest benefits of vaccination during pregnancy is protection for the newborn. When a pregnant person is vaccinated, protective antibodies are passed through the placenta to the baby.
This helps give babies early immunity during their first months of life. It’s a simple but powerful way to help protect newborns during a vulnerable stage of life.
Find a Pharmacy Near YouPharmacist Tip: Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it can also come with lots of questions about what’s safe for you and your baby. If you’re unsure about recommended vaccines during pregnancy, your local Complete Care Pharmacy can help you understand the benefits, timing and options available to support your health and your baby’s protection.
Community Protection and Herd Immunity in Australia
Vaccination can help protect you and the people around you. For some vaccine-preventable diseases, high vaccination coverage makes it harder for the infection to spread through the community. This is known as herd immunity.
This added layer of protection is especially important for people who may be more vulnerable or unable to receive certain vaccines, including newborns and people with some medical conditions.
Australia has been able to maintain lower rates of many vaccine-preventable diseases thanks to strong vaccination coverage. Vaccination can reduce the risk of serious illness and, for some vaccine-preventable diseases, help reduce transmission.
By keeping your vaccinations up to date, you’re taking an important step to protect your own health while also helping create a safer community for everyone.
Where to Get Vaccinated in Australia
Getting vaccinated in Australia is designed to be simple and accessible. Depending on your needs, location and the type of vaccine recommended for you, you can receive vaccinations through GP clinics, community pharmacies and some community health centres.
Pharmacies provide a convenient option for many routine vaccinations. Depending on the vaccine and your eligibility, you may be able to book an appointment or walk-in at your local pharmacy, making it easier to fit your health needs into your day.
How Complete Care Pharmacy Can Help
At Complete Care Pharmacy, our qualified pharmacists provide a range of government-funded and private vaccinations in a private consultation setting. We’re here to provide personalised advice and help you stay protected.
When you visit us, we can:
- Review your vaccination history
- Provide a private consultation to discuss your health needs
- Help you understand which vaccinations may be recommended based on your individual circumstances
Booking your vaccination is quick and convenient. You can book your vaccine online or visit your local Complete Care Pharmacy for support from our friendly team. With flexible appointment options and convenient locations, we make it easier to get vaccinated at a time that suits your schedule.
Protecting Yourself, Your Family & Your Community
Vaccination plays an important role at every stage of life, from a baby’s first immunisations through to adulthood and older age. Staying up to date with recommended vaccines helps protect not only your own health, but also the health of your family and the wider community around you.
As vaccine recommendations can change over time, it’s a good idea to stay informed and check in regularly with trusted health professionals. At Complete Care Pharmacy, our team is here to make it easy to stay protected, answer your questions, and help you book your next vaccination when you’re ready.
Book Your Vaccination NowDisclaimer: This information is general in nature and does not replace personalised medical advice. Vaccination recommendations, eligibility, availability and costs may vary depending on your age, health, vaccination history, location and current government guidance. Speak with your Complete Care pharmacist about which vaccinations may be appropriate for you.
Sources & Further Reading
This article is based on information from trusted Australian health authorities:
- Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing – Immunisation
https://www.health.gov.au/topics/immunisation - Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) – Vaccine safety and regulation
https://www.tga.gov.au/ - Australian Immunisation Handbook https://immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au/
- National Immunisation Program Schedule https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/national-immunisation-program-schedule
Frequently Asked Questions About Vaccination in Australia
In Australia, babies follow a set immunisation schedule under the National Immunisation Program (NIP), starting at birth and continuing through 6 weeks, 4 months, 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, and 4 years. These vaccines help protect infants early in life when they are most vulnerable to serious infections.
You can book a vaccination appointment through your local GP clinic, participating pharmacies such as Complete Care Pharmacy, or community health centres.
Yes. Many vaccines, including influenza and COVID-19 vaccines, are available through participating pharmacies. Other vaccines may also be available depending on the vaccine, pharmacy, your age and eligibility, and state or territory requirements. Pharmacies offer a quick and convenient way to stay up to date with your vaccinations without needing a GP appointment. At Complete Care Pharmacy, our trained pharmacists can provide a range of vaccinations to help make it easier for you and your family to stay protected year-round.
Yes. In Australia, trained and accredited pharmacists can administer many vaccines, including common ones like influenza and COVID-19, as well as selected travel and routine adult vaccines. This has helped improve access to vaccination, especially in local communities.
School-aged children may receive catch-up vaccines or boosters such as MMR, chickenpox, polio, and meningococcal vaccines. Many are also delivered through school-based vaccination programs run by state health departments.
Many vaccines are funded under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for eligible people. Eligibility can depend on factors such as age, pregnancy, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander status, medical conditions or other risk factors. Vaccines that are not funded for you may be available privately, and a consultation or administration fee may apply depending on the vaccination provider.
Vaccination is generally not mandatory for the Australian population. However, immunisation status can affect eligibility for certain family assistance payments and, in some states and territories, childcare enrolment. Vaccination requirements may also apply in certain workplaces.
Childcare immunisation requirements vary between states and territories. Depending on where you live, a child’s immunisation status may affect childcare enrolment or eligibility for certain government payments, unless an approved exemption applies. Some workplaces, particularly in healthcare, aged care and childcare, may also require specific vaccinations to help protect staff and the people they care for.
School enrolment and immunisation-record requirements vary between states and territories. Schools may request a child’s immunisation history, and during some disease outbreaks, unvaccinated children may be asked to remain at home temporarily.
Vaccination helps train the immune system to recognise and fight infections early, reducing the risk of severe illness and helping prevent the spread of disease in the community.
In Australia, influenza, whooping cough and RSV vaccines are routinely recommended during pregnancy. These help protect both the pregnant person and their baby.
COVID-19 vaccination may be recommended depending on previous vaccination, individual risk factors and current government guidance.
In Australia, newborns are usually given the Hepatitis B vaccine shortly after birth to provide early protection against infection.
The National Immunisation Program (NIP) is an Australian Government-funded program that provides free vaccines to eligible people at different stages of life. It helps protect against serious diseases through routine childhood vaccinations, school-based programs, booster doses, and vaccines for eligible adults, older Australians and people with specific health needs.
