What is HPV?

HPV, or Human Papillomavirus, is a common virus that anyone can contract, regardless of gender. Some types of HPV can cause the following diseases:

• Cervical cancer
• Penile cancer
• Anal cancer
• Head and neck cancers (e.g., oropharyngeal cancer)
• Genital warts (condyloma acuminata)

The HPV vaccine helps prevent infection from the most dangerous strains and plays a vital role in protecting against multiple cancers and genital warts.

HPV Vaccination in Queensland

Eligibility and Free Vaccination

Under Australia’s National Immunisation Program (NIP), people aged 12 to 25 years can receive the HPV vaccine for free, regardless of:

• Medicare status
• Nationality
• Visa type

This means that international students, refugees, working holidaymakers, and other temporary residents under 25 are eligible for free HPV vaccination in Australia.

For Patients from Overseas

If you’re visiting or residing in Australia from another country, you may not have received the HPV vaccine—or may not have had access to the newer Gardasil®9, which is now the global standard.

Here’s what overseas patients should know:

• Gardasil®9 is approved and widely used in Australia, covering 9 HPV types linked to cancers and warts. It offers broader protection than older versions (e.g., Gardasil®4 or Cervarix®).
• You are eligible for free vaccination if you are between 12 and 25 years old—even if you’re only staying in Australia temporarily.
• Even if you have started a HPV vaccine series in your home country, you can continue or complete it in Australia. Discuss your vaccination history with a doctor.
• If you’re 26 or older, you may still receive the vaccine, but it may not be subsidized. In that case, a private fee applies—please ask your clinic for cost and scheduling details.
• Vaccination is especially important if you have not been vaccinated before, or if you come from a country where HPV vaccine access is limited or recommendations are different.

For Patients from Japan

In Japan, HPV vaccination was paused in 2013 due to concerns over side effects, leading to a sharp drop in vaccination rates.
Now, with stronger evidence and updated safety reviews, Japan is resuming HPV vaccination programs, including Gardasil®9, which is recommended globally.

Some local governments in Japan now offer public subsidies for males as well.

If you received only Gardasil®4 or Cervarix® in Japan, Gardasil®9 offers broader protection and may still be beneficial. Speak with a healthcare provider in Australia for personalized advice.

Why Males Also Need the HPV Vaccine

HPV affects all genders, and vaccination is recommended for males because:

• Males are also at risk of:
  • Penile cancer
  • Anal cancer
  • Oropharyngeal (throat) cancer
• Genital warts also occur in males
• Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at higher risk for anal cancer
• Vaccination reduces virus spread, protecting partners and the broader community

HPV vaccination in males helps protect both themselves and others.

Vaccination Schedule

• Ages 9–25: One dose is recommended
• Ages 26 and over: Three doses are recommended
  • Especially for people at higher risk (e.g., MSM, sex workers), even above age 26
  • Discuss with your doctor whether the vaccine is suitable for you

HPV Vaccine Benefits

Safety and Side Effects

Gardasil®9 is recognized worldwide for its safety and effectiveness, with extensive testing and continuous monitoring.
Typical side effects are mild and temporary, such as:

• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
• Mild fever
• Fatigue
• Headache

Severe reactions are extremely rare.

Where to Get the HPV Vaccine

The HPV vaccine is available at Skyarch Medical Clinic Brisbane.
If you are from overseas or unsure about your eligibility or previous vaccine history, our staff can assist you. Please contact us for more information or to book your appointment.

References

HPV Vaccine in Australia:

• Cancer Council Australia
• Australian Government – Department of Health
• Australian Immunisation Handbook

Can Australia Eliminate Cervical Cancer?

• TGA Blog

HPV Vaccine in Japan:

• University of Tokyo Health Service Center
• Japan Society of Gynecologic Oncology
• The Lancet Oncology Article

Global Health Bodies:

• CDC – U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• WHO – World Health Organization
• EMA – European Medicines Agency