National Immunisation Program

The Australian National Immunisation Program (NIP) is funded by the Australian government and implemented by state and territory departments of health. Globally, the Australian NIP continues to be one of the most comprehensive, fully funded immunisation programs in the world. 

Occasionally, the ages at which some NIP vaccines are administered and the brand of vaccine used will vary among states and territories. Therefore it is important to also check the immunisation schedule for your area. 

Non-funded vaccines

Other vaccines are also available which are not provided through the national, state or territory immunisation programs. For example,  people working in certain occupations and industries, those wanting to reduce their risk of other vaccine preventable diseases, travellers. You can purchase these vaccines privately on script from your immunisation provider or general practitioner. Speak to your immunisation provider if you think you or someone in your care may need additional vaccines.

Refer to NCIRS immunisation schedules for different groups of people, which summarise vaccinations funded under the NIP as well as other recommendations in accordance with The Australian Immunisation Handbook.

Have you or your child missed a dose of vaccine?

If you or your child have missed out on some of the free vaccines provided by the Australian government, it's not too late. You can still receive these vaccines at no cost if:

  • you are under 19 years of age and have missed out on some or all of your vaccines as a child or at high school
  • you are over 20 years of age and are a refugee or humanitarian entrant.

Remember:

  • there is no need to repeat doses of vaccines you have already received
  • you may need a couple of doses of some vaccines to increase your protection
  • vaccines for travel are not included on the free immunisation catch-up program.

Speak to your immunisation provider for more information and to organise a catch-up vaccination schedule.

Last updated February 2024