Free Influenza Vaccine for All Queenslanders

From 1 March to 30 September 2026, all Queensland residents aged 6 months and older are eligible to receive a free influenza vaccine under the state’s expanded free flu vaccination program.

This includes:

• All Queensland residents aged 6 months and above
• Standard injectable influenza vaccines
• High-dose vaccines for older adults
• No requirement for specific medical risk factors

Nasal Spray Influenza Vaccine (FluMist)

In 2026, Queensland will also offer the nasal spray influenza vaccine (FluMist) under a state-funded program.

Free FluMist – Ages 2 to 5 Years (Inclusive)

Children aged 2 to 5 years (inclusive) are eligible to receive FluMist free of charge in Queensland.

This is funded by the Queensland Government as part of the expanded flu vaccination initiative.

FluMist is a needle-free, live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) administered as a gentle spray into each nostril.

Children Aged 6 to 18 Years

Children aged 6 to 18 years are eligible for a free annual influenza vaccine under the broader Queensland program.

However:

• The free option for this age group is the standard injectable flu vaccine
• The nasal spray (FluMist) is not funded for free beyond age 5

If families prefer FluMist for children aged 6–18 years:

• FluMist is approved for use in Australia up to 18 years of age (TGA approved)
• It would generally need to be accessed privately (self-funded)

Why Consider the Nasal Spray Vaccine?

FluMist provides several advantages:

• ✔ Needle-free (ideal for needle-anxious children)
• ✔ Quick and well tolerated
• ✔ Stimulates mucosal immunity in the upper respiratory tract
• ✔ May help reduce viral transmission in school and childcare settings

Summary

Free influenza vaccine in QLD (2026):

• Ages 6 months and older – free injectable flu vaccine
• Ages 2–5 years – free nasal spray (FluMist) or injection
• Ages 6–18 years – free injectable vaccine only (nasal spray self-funded if preferred)

Why Annual Vaccination Matters

Influenza viruses change every year. Annual vaccination helps:

• Reduce severe illness
• Lower hospitalisation rates
• Protect vulnerable family members
• Reduce strain on the healthcare system
• Support community immunity

SkyArch Medical Clinic Brisbane

Please contact SkyArch Medical Clinic Brisbane for flu vaccine consultation bookings.  We encourage early vaccination before peak flu season.

References

Queensland Health
https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/immunisation/diseases/influenza

Australian Government Department of Health
https://www.health.gov.au/topics/immunisation/vaccines/influenza-flu-vaccine

ATAGI Seasonal Influenza Advice
https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/atagi-advice-on-seasonal-influenza-vaccines

Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)
https://www.tga.gov.au