From 1 October 2026, COVID-19 vaccines will be funded under the National Immunisation Program (NIP), replacing the stand-alone National COVID-19 Vaccine Program (NCVP) established during Australia's COVID-19 pandemic response.
Under the NIP, funded COVID-19 vaccines will no longer be available as a universal program. Instead, states and territories will manage ordering, distribution, reporting and program support for COVID-19 vaccines under the NIP, in line with routine processes used for other NIP vaccines.
Funded access will be available for eligible groups at highest risk of severe disease, consistent with existing COVID-19 vaccination recommendations.
Free COVID-19 vaccines will be available under the NIP for:
People who are not eligible for a funded COVID-19 vaccine may choose to purchase the vaccine privately based on a risk-benefit discussion with their healthcare provider.
Comprehensive information and resources to support the transition will be released before 1 October 2026.
Current arrangements until 1 October 2026: Until 1 October 2026, COVID-19 vaccines remain available under the current NCVP arrangements. Providers should continue to offer COVID-19 vaccination in line with existing program arrangements and clinical recommendations.
