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Free RSV Vaccine Now Available for Older Australians
Older Australians will soon have access to free Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccinations under a major federal government health initiative announced on 19 April 2026 by Health Minister Mark Butler.
From 15 May, Australians aged 75 and over will be eligible to receive the RSV vaccine Arexvy® at no cost, with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people eligible from age 60. The vaccine can be accessed through GPs, immunisation clinics, community and Aboriginal health services, and participating pharmacies.
The Albanese Government has committed $445.3 million to fund the vaccine’s listing on the National Immunisation Program (NIP) — saving eligible recipients around $300 per dose out of pocket.
RSV is a common respiratory virus that can result in serious illness, hospitalisation, and in some cases, death. Aged care residents face heightened risk due to shared living environments and regular contact with staff and visitors.
Minister Butler urged eligible Australians to take advantage of the program, saying: “Aged care residents and older First Nations people are particularly vulnerable to this common respiratory illness. I encourage eligible Australians to protect themselves and their community this winter by getting vaccinated against RSV.”
The RSV program sits alongside existing free NIP vaccines for influenza and COVID-19. Free flu vaccines remain available for at-risk groups including children aged six months to under five years, First Nations people, adults over 65, pregnant women, and those with certain underlying health conditions.
For more information, speak with your healthcare provider or visit https://www.health.gov.au/topics/immunisation?language=und.