Recent changes have been introduced by the Australian Government in conjunction with the states and territories to see more people eligible for free shingles vaccination under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) from 1 November 2023.

A 2-Dose course of Shingrix® will now be available for free for the following individuals:

  • Those aged 65 and older
  • First Nations people aged 50 and older
  • Immunocompromised people aged 18 and over with eligible medical conditions.

Research indicates getting vaccinated is the safest and most effective way to protect yourself from shingles and its complications.

If you previously received a free Zostavax shingles vaccine under the NIP, you are not eligible for a free Shingrix vaccine for at least 5 years. If however, you purchased the Zostavax vaccine privately, you can receive Shingrix for free under the program if you’re eligible.

You should wait at least 12 months between receiving Zostavax and getting the Shingrix vaccine.

Talk to your GP or reception about your eligibility for the free shingles vaccine today.

For more information, please visit the Department of Health and Aged Care