The general flu vaccination is $24.95

Yes, from 1 March to 30 September 2026, the Queensland Government is providing free flu vaccinations for all residents aged 6 months and older. The program includes a new needle-free nasal spray vaccine for children aged 2 to 5 years. While the vaccine is free, some providers may charge a consultation fee.

Eligibility: All Queenslanders aged 6 months and over.

Yes! From 1 May to 31 July 2026, participating immunisation providers can administer state-funded influenza vaccines to people aged 12 to 64 years who are not otherwise eligible for an influenza vaccine under the National Immunisation Program (NIP). Persons without a Medicare card and those travelling to Western Australia, are also eligible for a vaccine under the Free Influenza Vaccine Program.

Eligibility

Persons eligible for the Program are:

• people aged 12 to 64 years, not otherwise eligible for NIP-funded influenza vaccines
• persons without a Medicare card
• interstate or international visitors.

Almost everyone can benefit from the flu vaccine. Even if you’re fit and healthy, you could pass the virus on to someone who is at risk of becoming very sick if they catch the flu.

If you care for children, older parents, or any other high-risk person, then you should consider getting the flu vaccination.

Children younger than 6 months of age, people with severe or life-threatening allergies to the flu vaccine or ingredients in the flu vaccine including gelatin, antibiotics or egg*.

*Vaccines that are cell-based and do not contain egg are available, speak to your pharmacist about this option

Generally, the flu vaccination will cover you for most of the flu season. Its effectiveness gradually decreases over time, which is why annual vaccination is recommended. Additionally, flu viruses evolve, so the vaccine is updated each year to target the most prevalent strains.

There are two main reasons for getting the flu vaccine annually:

1. As the virus is constantly changing, getting vaccinated from the flu every year means you’re best protected against the most recent and common circulating strains.
2. A person’s immune protection from influenza vaccination declines over time, and annual vaccination is recommended.

Vaccination is best undertaken in autumn (March-May) in anticipation of Australia’s peak flu season, which usually occurs between June and September.

Although there is strict testing in place for flu vaccinations in Australia, they may cause one or more side effects. These can include:

• Aches in muscles
• Temperature change
• Pain or swelling where the injection was given
• A small, hard lump where the injection was given (can last 1-2 weeks)
• Drowsiness

If you’re concerned about the persistence or severity of the side effects that you or your loved one is experiencing, please either see your GP or visit your nearest hospital immediately.

During your appointment, a trained pharmacist or nurse provider will administer a flu vaccination in a private room at the pharmacy. No prior prescription will be required, and appointments take only a few minutes, followed by a short observation period.

You will be asked to complete a consent form, and you may be asked some questions about your existing health and any previous reactions you may have had.

Please arrive 5 minutes before your appointment and be aware that you will need to remain in-store for a further 15-minute observation period in the unlikely event of an adverse reaction.

Please note: Age restrictions apply and vary according to state – please confirm with your local store the minimum age we can vaccinate.

• You may feel sore, hot, itchy or red around the area where you have been injected
• A small lump or bruise may develop at the injection site. This can last up to 14 days
• Occasional side effects may include flu-like symptoms, soreness of joints, muscle tenderness and general weakness
• You should contact a doctor if you feel unwell, itchy all over, faint or short of breath after your vaccination

To redeem your voucher for a free flu vaccination, you will need to book online and enter your voucher code when prompted. This voucher code can be found in the email received from TerryWhite or from your employer.