Shire Family Medical, our GP clinic in Sutherland, offers a full range of adult vaccinations, including the 2026 flu vaccine, shingles vaccination, and a range of other boosters funded under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) or available on a private script.
Who Is Eligible for a Free Flu Vaccine in 2026?
The 2026 flu vaccine is available free under the National Immunisation Program for Australians who fall into one of the NIP-eligible groups. Free vaccination is available for:
- Adults aged 65 years and over
- Pregnant women (at any stage of pregnancy)
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over
- People aged 6 months and over with certain medical conditions that increase the risk of severe influenza, including heart disease, severe asthma, diabetes, and some immune conditions
- Children aged 6 months to under 5 years
If you don’t fall into one of these groups, you can still receive the flu vaccine on a private script. The cost varies, so speak with our reception team when booking for current pricing.
Not sure whether you’re eligible? Your GP can confirm at your appointment, or you can book a check-up where vaccination status is typically reviewed alongside your other health priorities.
What’s New About the 2026 Flu Vaccine?
The 2026 influenza vaccine program includes several changes worth knowing about before you book.
Trivalent formulations: All 2026 influenza vaccines in Australia are trivalent, covering two A strains and one B strain. The B Yamagata lineage has been excluded from the formulation this year, as it is considered likely extinct.
Enhanced vaccines for over-65s: Australians aged 65 and over are preferentially recommended to receive either the NIP-funded adjuvanted influenza vaccine or a high-dose formulation available privately. Both are more effective in older adults than standard-dose vaccines. Our GPs can advise which option is appropriate for you.
Cell-based vaccine available: Flucelvax, a cell-based influenza vaccine, is NIP-funded in 2026 for at-risk patients aged 5 to 64 years. There is no clinical preference between Flucelvax and standard egg-based vaccines. Both are effective options.
When Should You Get the Flu Vaccine?
Timing matters. Flu vaccine protection is strongest in the three to four months following vaccination. Australia’s flu season typically peaks between June and September, so April and May are generally the best months to get vaccinated.
Getting vaccinated in March, before stocks have fully arrived, is rarely necessary. Getting vaccinated in July or August still provides meaningful protection for the remainder of the season. It’s not too late.
If you’ve had COVID-19 recently, your GP can advise whether to wait before having the flu vaccine at the same appointment.
Who Should Get the Shingles Vaccine in 2026?
Shingles vaccination is one of the most commonly overlooked adult vaccines, and one of the most worthwhile. Shingles (herpes zoster) is caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus and becomes significantly more common after age 50. The risk of a serious complication called post-herpetic neuralgia, a persistent nerve pain that can last months or years after the rash clears, also increases with age.
Shingles vaccination is generally recommended for:
- Adults aged 65 and over (NIP-funded; confirm eligibility with your GP)
- Immunocompromised individuals (discuss with your GP, as live vaccines require special consideration)
- Adults aged 50 and over who want protection (available on a private script)
How much does the shingles vaccine cost? If you’re NIP-eligible, the vaccine is free. For adults under 65 receiving the vaccine privately, costs vary. Contact our reception team for current pricing. A single dose provides meaningful protection, though a two-dose course is recommended where indicated. Your GP can advise the right schedule for your age and health status.
Which Adult Vaccinations Should You Prioritise This Year?
If you haven’t had a vaccination review recently, the following are the vaccines most commonly discussed with adult patients at our Sutherland clinic.
Annual: Flu (Influenza)
Recommended every year for all adults, with NIP-funded options for eligible groups. The formulation is updated annually to match the circulating strains, so last year’s vaccine doesn’t replace this year’s.
Every 10 Years: Tetanus (dTpa Booster)
A combined tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough (pertussis) booster is recommended every 10 years for most adults. It’s also recommended sooner following significant wounds, and for adults who’ll be in close contact with newborns, including grandparents and carers as well as parents. A tetanus booster is available at our clinic on a private script.
Once (or as Recommended): Shingles
Particularly important for adults over 50, and NIP-funded for eligible patients. See the section above for full details.
Once-Off or Catch-Up: HPV, Hepatitis B
Adults who didn’t complete these vaccinations at school or as children may still benefit from catch-up vaccination. Your GP can assess whether these are relevant for your circumstances.
Can I Get Multiple Vaccines at the Same Visit?
In most cases, yes. It’s safe and practical to receive more than one vaccine at the same appointment. Flu and COVID-19 boosters, for example, can generally be given together. Your GP or nurse will confirm which combinations are appropriate based on your individual health history.
If you’re planning to get several vaccines, mention this when booking so we can allocate adequate time for your appointment.
Do I Need a Referral to Get Vaccinated at a GP?
No referral is needed for standard adult vaccinations at Shire Family Medical. You can book directly online or call our reception team. Most vaccination appointments are available within the same week.
When you attend, bring your Medicare card and, if you have it, your Immunisation History Statement from Medicare via myGov. If you don’t have your history, our nursing team can check your Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) records at the appointment.
See all adult vaccinations available at Shire Family Medical →
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2026 flu vaccine free?
The flu vaccine is free under the NIP for eligible Australians, including adults aged 65 and over, pregnant women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over, children under 5, and people with certain medical conditions. If you’re not in an eligible group, the vaccine is available on a private script at an additional cost. Speak with our reception team for current pricing.
When is the best time to get the flu vaccine in 2026?
April and May are generally the ideal months to get vaccinated ahead of Australia’s flu season, which typically peaks between June and September. The vaccine’s protection is strongest in the first three to four months, so earlier in the season gives you the best coverage through winter.
Can I get the flu vaccine and the shingles vaccine at the same time?
In most cases, yes. Your GP or nurse can confirm which vaccine combinations are appropriate for you at the time of your appointment. Let us know when booking if you’d like to discuss receiving more than one vaccine so we can allocate appropriate time.
How much does the shingles vaccine cost in Australia?
The shingles vaccine is free for NIP-eligible patients, which includes adults in specific age groups. Your GP can confirm your eligibility. For adults outside the funded groups, the vaccine is available on a private script. Contact our reception team for current pricing.
Do I need a referral for adult vaccinations?
No. You can book a vaccination appointment directly at Shire Family Medical. No referral from a GP or specialist is needed for standard adult vaccinations. Book online or call 02 9545 1777.
How do I know which vaccines I’ve already had?
You can access your Immunisation History Statement via Medicare Online or the myGov app. Alternatively, our nursing team can check your Australian Immunisation Register records at your appointment before deciding what’s needed.
This article provides general health information only. It is not a substitute for personalised medical advice and does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Any treatment, test, procedure or vaccination mentioned is for illustrative purposes only. Suitability depends on individual circumstances and assessment by a qualified health professional. Medical information can change; always speak with your GP about your specific symptoms, health history and care options. In an emergency, call 000.
About Shire Family Medical
Shire Family Medical is an AGPAL-accredited general practice in Sutherland, providing patient-centred GP care for individuals and families at every stage of life. Led by Dr Louis Traynor and registered nurse Rebel Traynor, the practice offers a broad range of general practice services at 154 Flora Street, Sutherland — conveniently located near Sutherland Station and serving the wider Sutherland Shire community. All doctors practising at Shire Family Medical are registered medical practitioners with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
Shire Family Medical publishes general health information across preventive care, women’s and men’s health, children’s health, travel health and chronic disease management. Articles are written to help patients make informed decisions about their health in partnership with their GP.