Is the COVID-19 vaccination compulsory in Australia?
COVID-19 vaccination is free, voluntary, and available to Medicare and non-Medicare cardholders, as well as most visa holders.
While you can't be forced to get vaccinated, there may be consequences, such as restrictions on travel or work. For example, some countries and airlines may require proof of vaccination, similar to requirements for Yellow Fever. Certain jobs, like airline crew or frontline healthcare workers, may also mandate vaccination due to a higher risk of exposure.
Australians have a strong history of immunisation, which remains one of the most effective ways to prevent illness and reduce its spread.
Who should get the COVID-19 vaccination?
Everyone in Australia aged 5 years and over is eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination.
How can I be sure the COVID-19 vaccination is safe?
Before a COVID-19 vaccine is used in Australia, it must be approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
The TGA assesses the safety, quality and effectiveness of the vaccines before they are registered for use in Australia. This process is one of the most thorough in the world.^
The vaccine that will be available as part of Australia’s COVID-19 vaccination program will go through this strict approval process before it is made available to be administered.
Are there any known side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine?
The vaccine can have side effects, which are usually mild, and your pharmacist will talk you through these during your appointment.
In clinical trials of the COVID-19 vaccine, the most commonly reported side effects have included pain at the injection site, fever, and muscle aches.
All these side effects didn’t last for long. It's important to remember the benefits of being protected against COVID-19 significantly outweigh any minor side effects from the vaccine.^
Do you offer the Children’s Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine?
Yes, children aged 5-11 can now receive the Comirnaty (Pfizer) vaccine in selected community pharmacies across the country.
This vaccine is a paediatric version of the Pfizer vaccine and will need to be administered in two doses at least 8 weeks apart.
Book children's COVID-19 vaccination here
How can I book in for my COVID-19 vaccination?
Click here or scroll to the top of this page and select one of the booking options, and then follow the prompts.
We look forward to seeing you at your vaccination appointment soon.
How can I cancel or reschedule my existing COVID-19 vaccination Appointment?
To cancel or reschedule your COVID-19 vaccination appointment, please locate the confirmation email sent to you at the time of booking. This email will come from info@healthengine.com.au. Be sure to check your spam or junk folder if you don’t see it in your inbox.
The email includes a link that allows you to cancel or reschedule your appointment.
If you’re unable to find the email, please contact customersupport@twcmhealth.com.au or get in touch directly with the TerryWhite Chemmart pharmacy where you booked your appointment.
How can I protect myself from COVID-19 until I am able to get the vaccine?
The best thing you can do to help protect yourself is to stay up to date and continue to be COVID-safe.
This includes doing things like:
- Practising good hand hygiene
- Maintaining social distance
- Stay home if you are sick and get tested
Will a flu vaccination protect me from COVID-19?
No, the flu vaccine will not protect you against COVID-19. It is recommended to be up to date with all vaccinations, including both flu and COVID-19.
Influenza and COVID-19 are both dangerous but separate viruses. And now, you can have both your COVID-19 booster and your 2024 flu vaccination during the same appointment, on the same day, at participating TerryWhite Chemmart pharmacies.
Book now
Can I get my COVID-19 vaccination at the same time as my annual flu vaccination?
Yes, flu and COVID-19 vaccinations can be safely given at the same time, making it easier for Australians to stay protected against serious respiratory illnesses.
Flu vaccinations are available at TerryWhite Chemmart pharmacies nationwide from around mid-March. For most adults, the ideal time to get vaccinated is between March and late April, ensuring maximum protection before the peak flu season, which typically runs from June to September.
Book now