When to get vaccinated
The Australian flu vaccine is generally available from April each year. The peak flu
season runs June through September. Maximum protection takes about 2 weeks to develop,
so getting vaccinated in April or May is ideal. That said: any time in flu season is
better than nothing — even an October vaccination still helps.
Who gets a FREE flu shot under the NIP?
The Australian Government provides free annual flu vaccination through the National Immunisation
Program for: Children 6 months to 5 years (annually); Pregnant women
(any stage); Adults 65+ (with high-dose enhanced vaccine); Aboriginal &
Torres Strait Islander people (any age, 6 months+); People with chronic
conditions (asthma, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, etc., 6 months+); People
who are immunocompromised (any age).
What if I’m not in those groups?
Healthy adults outside the NIP categories can still be vaccinated at our clinic — there’s a small
private fee for the vaccine itself (typically $20–$30). The GP/nurse consultation is bulk-billed. Many
employers also cover staff flu vaccinations as a workplace wellness initiative.
What is FluMist Nasal Spray?
FluMist (also known as Fluenz Tetra) is a needle-free flu vaccine — a quick spray in each nostril.
Approved in Australia for healthy children aged 2–18. It’s a live attenuated vaccine, meaning it
contains a weakened flu virus that produces a strong immune response without causing illness in healthy
individuals. Available privately at Cranbourne West (typically $40–$50).
FluMist — who shouldn’t have it?
FluMist is NOT suitable for: pregnant women, immunocompromised individuals, children under 2 or over
18, people taking aspirin therapy, people with severe asthma or wheezing in the past 12 months, people
with severe egg allergy. Our doctors will assess suitability before giving it.
Common side effects
Standard injection: Sore arm 24–48 hours, occasional low-grade fever, fatigue. Severe
reactions are extremely rare (less than 1 in a million). FluMist: Runny nose, mild
congestion, low-grade fever, sore throat — usually for 1–2 days. None of these mean you have the flu.
Co-administration with COVID-19 boosters
ATAGI confirms the flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccines can safely be given on the same day, in opposite
arms. We can do both in one visit if you’re due. No need to space them out.
If you’ve already had the flu this year
You can still benefit from vaccination. Each flu vaccine targets four different strains, so even after
one strain you may still be susceptible to others. Check with your GP.
Booking your family in
Use HotDoc to book the whole family in for back-to-back slots. Mention “family flu” when booking and
reception will arrange consecutive appointments. We do approximately 800 flu vaccinations every season —
efficient and friendly.
📌 Key Takeaways
- Flu vaccines best given April–June
- Free under NIP for kids, pregnancy, 65+, ATSI, chronic conditions
- FluMist nasal spray = needle-free option for kids 2–18
- Private cost approx $20–$30 if not NIP eligible
- Safe to co-administer with COVID-19 boosters
- Full immunity develops 2 weeks after vaccination