What’s happening?
The Crisafulli Government has confirmed the continuation of free influenza vaccinations for all Queenslanders in 2025.
The program, which runs from 1 March to 1 September 2025, makes flu vaccines available at no cost to all residents aged six months and older.
This follows the success of the 2024 program and aims to improve public health outcomes while alleviating pressure on the state’s healthcare system.
Why it Matters?
Influenza poses a serious health risk, especially to vulnerable groups such as young children, seniors, and people with underlying health conditions.
The free vaccination program is a proactive measure to protect Queenslanders from preventable illnesses. “Vaccines are our best protection against the flu, and the most effective way to prevent deaths and serious illness,” said RACGP Queensland Chair Dr Cathryn Hester.
She also noted the value of GP consultations during vaccination appointments, emphasising: “This is a great opportunity to catch up with your GP who knows you and your history, and to stay well in 2025.”
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls highlighted the broader implications of the program, stating: “Extending free flu vaccination for all Queenslanders should improve uptake and support the broader health system through avoidable hospitalisations.”
Local Impact
Queenslanders will benefit from improved access to flu vaccines at no cost, reducing barriers to preventative care. RACGP Chair Dr Cathryn Hester pointed out that GPs remain the most trusted providers of immunisations: “GPs are ready and willing to help Queenslanders reduce the risk of becoming unwell with preventable illnesses like influenza.”
By the Numbers
- 79,197 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases in Queensland in 2024, up from 74,343 in 2023.
- 61% of flu vaccinations in Queensland in 2024 were administered by GPs.
- $25 million allocated by the Crisafulli Government for the 2025 vaccination program.
Zoom In
The program addresses a decline in flu vaccination rates over recent years. In 2022, the introduction of free flu vaccines saw a 36% uptake across Queensland, equating to over 2.1 million doses.
However, uptake dropped to 29% in 2024, with vaccine fatigue and hesitancy identified as significant factors.
Minister Nicholls emphasised the need to reverse this trend: “The decline in the numbers of Queenslanders getting the flu jab in 2023 and 2024 indicates vaccine fatigue and hesitancy may be impacting decisions more so than the cost.”
Zoom Out
This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health and alleviating strain on emergency departments.
The Crisafulli Government has positioned this program as part of a broader strategy to enhance healthcare accessibility and protect at-risk populations.
What to Look For Next?
Queenslanders are encouraged to book their flu vaccinations with their GPs starting from March 2025.
Health officials will track vaccine uptake and its impact on hospital admissions during the flu season.
Additionally, advocacy efforts will continue to push for flu vaccinations to be universally included in the National Immunisation Program.
