QUEENSLANDERS aged six months and over will be eligible for a free influenza vaccination from March under an expanded statewide flu program aimed at improving access and increasing vaccination rates ahead of the winter season.
From 1 March 2026, free flu vaccines will be available through GP clinics, community pharmacies and other primary care providers across Queensland, making it the most comprehensive free influenza vaccination program in the state’s history.
For the first time, eligible children aged two to five years will have access to a needle-free nasal spray flu vaccine, which is expected to improve uptake among young children by reducing anxiety associated with injections.
Health Minister Tim Nicholls said the nasal spray vaccine has been widely used overseas and provides an alternative option for families.
“This nasal spray vaccination is expected to improve vaccine uptake among young children by removing potential distress about needle vaccinations,” Mr Nicholls said.
The changes will enable vaccinations to be delivered in workplaces, at community and public events, and in remote and regional communities, improving access for people who may otherwise face barriers to vaccination.
Chief Health Officer Dr Marianne Gale encouraged Queenslanders to take advantage of the free vaccine once it becomes available at providers throughout March.
“No one wants to be stuck in bed or in hospital missing work, school, family events or holidays, and that’s why prevention matters,” Dr Gale said.
“The free flu vaccination program aims to reduce the number and severity of influenza cases and ease demand on healthcare services by preventing avoidable hospital admissions.”
In 2025, Queensland recorded nearly 100,000 influenza cases and more than 300 influenza-related deaths, with most hospitalisations and fatalities occurring among people who were unvaccinated.
Flu vaccines will be rolled out to providers from March into early April. Queenslanders are encouraged to check with their GP or pharmacist about the vaccine option best suited to them.
