Immunisation Archives | South Western Sydney PHN

08 May 2026

Become an Authorised Nurse Immuniser in NSW and administer vaccinations independent of a medical officer. Nurse immuniser training scholarships are now available to registered nurses who work in general practice or residential aged care homes in South Western Sydney.

2026 intakes are now full.

Completion of the HESA-accredited course authorises nurses to administer vaccinations independent of a medical officer. The course is delivered by Benchmarque Group and participants will have three months to complete.

A total of 37 scholarships is available, offered in three rounds throughout 2026 – May (13 placements), July (12 placements) and October (12 placements).

An increase in the number of Authorised Nurse Immunisers will support the rollout of vaccinations in our region to healthcare workers, vulnerable populations and the general community.

About Immuniser Pathways for Health Professionals

This course replicates Benchmarque’s Immunisation Course for Health Professionals course. It includes a self-paced online component followed by an in-person workshop at a Sydney location. You will have three months to complete it. This scholarship is valued at $500 per participant.

For a course description, including learning outcomes, please visit Immuniser Pathways for Health Professionals on the Benchmarque Group website:

Benchmarque Group course details

Scholarship criteria

You must currently be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia as a registered nurse or midwife.
You must be working within the nursing profession in a general practice or residential aged care home located in the local government area of Bankstown, Campbelltown, Camden, Fairfield, Liverpool, Wollondilly or Wingecarribee.
You must have two to three years’ experience within the nursing profession since initial registration, with the last 12 months prior to making the application spent in employment in NSW or the ACT.
This scholarship provides fully funded access to the course, valued at $500. Participants are asked to complete the training within three months and submit their completion certificate to finalise the scholarship requirements.

What to expect

once you submit the below EOI, your eligibility will be confirmed by SWSPHN
you will then receive an email from SWSPHN containing an agreement to read, sign and return outlining the scholarship conditions
once your agreement is received, your details will be provided to Benchmarque Group, who will email you access to the online course and information about face-to-face workshops you will be invited to attend
participants have three months to complete the online course, attend the workshop and provide SWSPHN with a copy of their completion certificate
if you are experiencing difficulty completing the course within the required timeframe, please contact us early to discuss available support options. Participants who do not complete the course or provide a completion certificate may be required to cover the $500 course fee
all course completion certificates must be received by SWSPHN by 31 January 2027

These details will also be provided in email and in your agreement.

Funding for this initiative is provided by the Department of Health Disability and Aged Care.

Participants with any questions can email covid19@swsphn.com.au

28 April 2026

Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from serious illness during winter. This page explains who should get vaccinated against flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), when to get vaccinated, and where to book your appointment.

Flu vaccine

Who should get a flu vaccine?

Everyone over the age of six months should have a flu vaccination every year.

Getting vaccinated against the flu helps protect both you and the people around you.

It’s particularly important to protect vulnerable people in the community who are at risk of severe disease, such as:

babies
older people
pregnant women
people with chronic (long-term) health conditions

Why should I get a flu vaccine?

In Australia, the flu is the most common illness which can be prevented with a vaccine.

Some people have only a mild illness, but others can become seriously unwell and need to go to the hospital when they have the flu. Even otherwise healthy people can get very sick with the flu.

Vaccination gives you protection.

Vaccination reduces the severity of flu-related illness, and the risk of flu-related hospitalisations and deaths. Studies suggest that in Australia in 2024, vaccinated people were about 60 per cent less likely to visit their GP or be hospitalised with flu than unvaccinated people.

Is vaccination safe?

Yes, vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect yourself and your family from serious disease caused by flu.

Vaccines, like other medicines, can have side effects. However, all vaccines used in Australia have been developed, tested and monitored for safety, and the benefits of these vaccines greatly outweigh their risks.

Find out more about vaccine safety on the Department of Health and Aged Care website

Debunking the myth

The flu vaccine does not cause the flu. This is because all flu vaccines in use in Australia are made with a virus which has been inactivated or killed. Sometimes, the normal responses the body has after getting the vaccine can be like the early signs of flu.

People may experience swelling, redness and pain at the injection site, and also fever, tiredness and muscle aches. This can make people think they have developed flu from the vaccine. But these symptoms are a sign the vaccine is causing an immune response, which is what it’s designed to do.

The symptoms can start within a few hours of being vaccinated and sometimes last one to two days. They go away on their own once your body has successfully made an immune response to the vaccine, which will protect you from flu.

Questions about vaccination handbook – Department of Health and Aged Care National Immunisation Program [PDF | 72 pages]

Where do I get a flu vaccine?

You can get a flu shot at:

your local GP clinic
local council immunisation clinics
community health centres
Aboriginal health services
some pharmacies

Visit healthdirect.gov.au to find a vaccination site and make a booking.

Who can get a free flu vaccine?

Free flu vaccines will be available to eligible people under the National Immunisation Program, including:

children aged six months to less than five years of age
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged six months and over
pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
people aged 65 years or over
people aged six months and over with medical risk conditions putting them at increased risk of severe flu

Ask your GP if your medical condition makes you eligible for a free vaccine.

You can pay for the flu shot if you are not eligible for free vaccination.

How do I protect myself and others from the flu?

There are simple steps to help protect others, including: 

get your annual flu vaccination
stay home if you are sick and wear a mask if you need to leave home
get together outdoors or in large, well-ventilated spaces with open doors and windows
avoid crowded places
don’t visit people who are at higher risk of severe illness if you are sick or have tested positive for flu
practice good hand hygiene, including handwashing

Visit healthdirect.gov.au for more tips

Find out more:

Health Resource Directory – Influenza Immunisation

Healthdirect: Flu vaccine FAQs

NSW Health – Influenza, including information in various languages

SKAI, Sharing Knowledge About Immunisation

Department of Health, Disability and Ageing – 2026 flu vaccination – consumer factsheet

2026 respiratory illness resources (posters, factsheets, videos, brochures):

2026 Respiratory illness resources

Aboriginal communities – Respiratory illness resources for Aboriginal communities

Translated resources – Translated respiratory illness resources

Other respiratory illnesses

NSW Health has the following advice about protecting yourself and others from respiratory illnesses like flu, COVID-19 and RSV – Respiratory illness: influenza (flu), COVID-19 and RSV.

NSW Health advice

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common, highly contagious virus which infects the airways and lungs.

RSV spreads between people when an infected person produces small water droplets while talking, coughing or sneezing. The droplets can be inhaled by others or land on surfaces where the virus can live for several hours.

Those most at risk of severe illness include babies and young children, and older adults, especially those with chronic heart or lung disease or weakened immune systems.

Most RSV infections in NSW happen in late autumn and winter.

Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect against serious disease caused by RSV.

RSV vaccination is recommended for specific groups including:

women at 28 to 36 weeks pregnancy
infants and children under two years of age
- whose mothers were not vaccinated at least two weeks before delivery, or
- who are at increased risk of severe disease, or
- who have medical conditions or circumstances which increase their risk of RSV disease
First Nations people aged 60 years and over
people aged 60 years and over with medical conditions which increase their risk of severe RSV disease
people aged 75 years and over.

The maternal RSV vaccine (Abrysvo^®) is free under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) and is recommended for women at 28 to 36 weeks pregnancy (prior to 37 weeks) to protect their baby.

From 15 May 2026, RSV vaccines will be funded through the NIP for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 years and over, and adults aged 75 years and over.

Australian Immunisation Handbook – Conditions associated with increased risk of severe RSV disease in adults

Ask your GP about RSV vaccination.

Find out more:

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) factsheet | NSW Health

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine consumer fact sheet | Department of Health, Disability and Ageing

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine – Frequently Asked Questions | Department of Health, Disability and Ageing

COVID-19 vaccine

COVID-19 is a human coronavirus which spreads from an infected person to other people in close contact:

through contaminated droplets and aerosolised particles spread by coughing or sneezing
by touching your mouth, nose and eyes with contaminated hands. Hands can become contaminated after contact with respiratory fluids, surfaces and objects containing the virus

Symptoms may include:

fever (37.5 degrees Celsius or higher)
cough
sore throat
shortness of breath (difficulty breathing)
runny nose
loss of taste
loss of smell

The amount of time between exposure to the virus and the first appearance of symptoms is usually three days, although it may range from two to 14 days.

Continue to protect other people. Please stay home if you have any cold or flu symptoms. Wear a mask if you need to leave home.

Are your COVID-19 vaccinations up-to-date? Use this tool to determine whether you are eligible for a COVID-19 booster vaccination.
COVID-19 booster eligibility checker | Department of Health, Disability and Ageing

Find a COVID-19 vaccine clinic near you | healthdirect

Find out more about COVID-19 | Health Resource Directory

Free community immunisation days 2026

These clinics are delivered by NSW Health’s South Western Sydney Local Health District Public Health Unit, and are open to eligible community members.

Visit a clinic

Winter wellness

If you get sick with cold or flu symptoms this winter, here is what you can do:

Speak to your GP

Your regular GP is the best place to start. Ask if they offer telehealth to avoid public places while you’re sick. If you need to attend in person, wear a face mask.

Call healthdirect – 1800 022 222

Free, 24/7 health advice. A registered nurse will help you decide what to do next and can help you find local care, which might be Urgent Care.

Visit Urgent Care

Urgent Care is for minor illnesses and injuries which need urgent medical attention the same day. Clinics are bulk-billed and available in Austral, Bankstown, Campbelltown, Fairfield, Gregory Hills and Liverpool.

For more information about Urgent Care, visit Urgent Care in South Western Sydney.

Use the after-hours GP service

Need help outside your regular GP hours? Access your local after-hours GP service.

Learn more: After-hours healthcare in South Western Sydney.

Call Triple Zero (000) or visit your nearest hospital emergency department for life-threatening symptoms.

Looking for advice in your preferred language? For free health advice call healthdirect using the TIS interpreter services on 131 450.

28 April 2026

This article outlines the 2026 flu, RSV and COVID vaccination guidelines for GPs and Aboriginal Medical Service. It covers vaccine eligibility, ordering, timing and co-administration with other vaccines. Practices are encouraged to review the latest toolkits, prioritise high-risk groups and ensure all vaccinations are reported to the Australian Immunisation Register.

Influenza

NSW Health has provided the following information about the seasonal flu vaccination for general practices and Aboriginal Medical Services.

Key messages

influenza vaccination reduces the severity of influenza-related illness and risk of influenza-related hospitalisations and deaths
from April 2026, free influenza vaccines will be available to eligible people under the National Immunisation Program (NIP)
immunisation providers should prioritise children aged six months to under five years, Aboriginal people, pregnant women, people with an increased risk of complications from influenza, and people aged 65 years and over
the needle-free NSW Intranasal Influenza Vaccination Program will also be available for children aged two years to under five years this year
the annual NSW influenza vaccination webinar was held on 24 February 2026. A recording of the webinar is available
A Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) webinar recording is available to learn more about nasal spray influenza vaccine

NSW Health Winter Respiratory Vaccination Toolkit 2026

Of note, in 2026, the NSW Government is rolling out the NSW Nasal Spray Influenza Vaccination Program and funding FluMist®, a nasal spray influenza vaccine administered via nasal spray to children aged two to 17 as a needle-free alternative.

All pre-allocated FluMist® has been distributed to the relevant providers. You can now place an additional order for FluMist®.

Steps to place an order of FluMist®:

Log in to the NSW Vaccine Centre online ordering system
Press the button “Place influenza vaccine order 2026”
Input the quantity of FluMist® required (please note ordering for injectable influenza vaccine is unlimited)

As FluMist® has a 13 to 15 weeks shelf life, please closely monitor the expiry date of your stock regularly and before administering to your patients.

Eligibility and timing of vaccination

influenza vaccination is recommended for all people aged six months and over from mid-April to provide protection before the peak season takes place (June to September)
people at higher risk of serious influenza complications are eligible for free influenza vaccination under the NIP, including all children six months to under five years, Aboriginal people, pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy, people aged 65 years and over and people with chronic medical conditions attending your practice
more information about key at-risk groups and timing of vaccination is available in the ATAGI 2026 Statement on the Administration of Seasonal Influenza Vaccines

ATAGI 2026 Statement on the Administration of Seasonal Influenza Vaccines

Find more information on patients to target for funded vaccines, frequently asked questions and the optimum time for vaccination.

NSW Health – Eligibility for the influenza vaccine

Frequently asked questions about influenza vaccination for health professionals

Co-administration with other vaccines

influenza vaccines can be co-administered with most other vaccines, including Tpa, RSV, pneumococcal and COVID-19 vaccines. Refer to the Australian Immunisation Handbook for more information
as per the Australian Immunisation Handbook, Fluad Quad and Shingrix administration should be separated by a few days

Australian Immunisation Handbook

NCIRS guide to co-administration of vaccines for adults

Preparing your practice

read the NSW Health Winter Respiratory Vaccination Toolkit 2026
ensure your practice software can report vaccinations to the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR). Reporting of all vaccinations is mandatory. Further information is available at PRODA (Provider Digital Access)
if not already registered, Aboriginal Medical Services will also need to complete the Australian Immunisation Register Application to Register as a Vaccination Provider
ensure your practice is registered for online vaccine ordering with the NSW Vaccine Centre. If you have not already registered for online ordering, find information on how to register

Find more information:

NSW Health Winter Respiratory Vaccination Toolkit 2026

PRODA (Provider Digital Access)

Australian Immunisation Register Application

NSW State Vaccine Centre

NSW Health – Register for online ordering

NSW Health – Influenza Vaccination Program: for immunisation providers

Vaccine storage

vaccines MUST be stored between +2°C to +8°C during storage and transport and stored in their original packaging at all times (to protect them from temperature fluctuations and UV light) in accordance with the National Vaccine Storage Guidelines ‘Strive for 5’

DoHDA – National Vaccine Storage Guidelines ‘Strive for 5’

NSW Health – Vaccine storage and cold chain management

All adverse events after vaccination should be reported to the South Western Sydney Local Health District Public Health Unit on 1300 066 055 or complete an adverse events following immunisation initial report form on the NSW Health website.

Localised influenza information for vaccination providers

HealthPathways South Western Sydney

NSW Health

2026 seasonal influenza vaccination information for immunisation providers

Resources for influenza vaccination providers

Phone your local Public Health Unit on 1300 066 055.

Other respiratory illnesses

NSW Health – NSW respiratory surveillance – COVID-19 and influenza

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes respiratory infections which can affect the nose, throat and breathing passages including the lungs. Those most at risk of severe illness include babies and young children, and older adults, especially those with chronic heart or lung disease or weakened immune systems.

Most RSV infections in NSW happen in late autumn and winter.

Anyone who wants to protect themselves against RSV can talk to their health professional about getting vaccinated.

The Australian Immunisation Handbook recommends RSV vaccination for specific groups including:

pregnant women at 28 to 36 weeks of pregnancy
people aged 75 years and older and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 years and older
people with medical risk factors for severe RSV disease aged 60 years and older

RSV monoclonal antibodies are recommended for:

young infants up to eight months of age whose mothers did not receive RSV vaccine in pregnancy, or who were vaccinated less than two weeks before delivery
young infants up to eight months of age who are at increased risk of severe RSV disease, regardless of their mother’s vaccination status
children aged eight months to under two years who have medical risk factors for severe RSV disease in their second RSV season

The maternal RSV vaccine (Abrysvo^®) is free under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) and is recommended for women at 28 to 36 weeks pregnancy (prior to 37 weeks) to protect their baby.

NSW Health advice: Changes to ordering of nirsevimab 50mg | 2026 RSV maternal and infant immunisation program

From 15 May 2026, RSV vaccines will be funded through the NIP for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 years and over, and adults aged 75 years and over.

NSW Health advice: Older adults will be eligible for RSV vaccine (Arexvy®) under the NIP

Australian Immunisation Handbook recommendations for specific groups

Australian Immunisation Handbook – Conditions associated with increased risk of severe RSV disease in adults

COVID-19

Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) has provided the following advice on COVID-19 vaccine administration.

Key points:

vaccination remains an important measure to protect those at risk of severe disease from COVID-19
all adults are eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine every 12 months
adults aged 75 years and over, including aged care residents, have the highest risk of severe COVID-19 including death, and are recommended to receive COVID-19 vaccines every six months
COVID-19 vaccines can be co-administered with any other vaccine for people aged five years and over
all vaccinations must be recorded on the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR)

Other resources

Information guide: Why is COVID-19 vaccination important for older adults?

The Australian Immunisation Handbook

NCIRS – COVID-19 vaccines: Frequently asked questions

DoHDA – COVID 19 vaccination advice and recommendations

NSW Health – COVID-19 vaccination: information for NSW Health immunisation providers

ATAGI clinical guidance for COVID-19 vaccine providers

17 April 2026

A petting zoo, face painting and sausage sizzle helped keep smiles on the brave little faces of those who had their annual flu vaccinations at Tharawal Aboriginal Medical Service (AMS) on Thursday, 16 April.

Almost 140 locals – both children and adults – turned up for their annual flu vaccination, with NSW Health, Tharawal AMS and Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council (AH&MRC) staff working together to deliver the flu needle and nasal spray vaccines.

Children aged two, three and four are now eligible for the free nasal spray flu vaccine in NSW. It is gentle, painless and needle-free. Children aged five to 17 can also receive the FluMist vaccine at a cost.

02 April 2026

It’s a fair question, and one a lot of people ask.

If you’re generally healthy, it can feel like catching the flu once in a while might help your body build natural immunity. Especially after the past few years, many people are also feeling a bit of vaccine fatigue and are questioning which vaccines they really need.

So, is it better to just let your immune system handle it?

The short answer

Natural immunity does play a role, but when it comes to flu, it’s not as reliable as people think.

That’s because the flu virus changes every year. The strain you had last year, or even a few years ago, may be quite different to what’s circulating this season. So your past immunity might not recognise it well enough to protect you.

What many people don’t realise

Being immunised against flu isn’t just about avoiding infection altogether.

Even if you do catch the flu, the vaccine can:

reduce how severe your symptoms are
lower your risk of complications like pneumonia
make it less likely you’ll need hospital care

For many people that difference is significant, especially for young children, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions.

Why yearly protection matters

Unlike some other vaccines, the flu vaccine is updated each year to match the strains most likely to circulate.

Protection also decreases over time, which is why a yearly dose gives you the best chance of staying protected throughout the flu season.

It’s not just about you

Flu spreads easily through families, workplaces and the community.

Being immunised helps reduce the chance of passing it on to others, including people who may be more vulnerable to serious illness, like babies, pregnant women, and older family members.

Feeling unsure? You’re not alone

It’s completely normal to feel unsure about vaccines, especially after everything we’ve all experienced during COVID-19.

Taking a moment to check what’s recommended for you now, rather than relying on past illness, is a simple way to stay on top of your health.

Be an Immunisation Hero

A quick conversation with your GP or practice nurse can help you decide what’s right for you this flu season.

You can get your flu shot at your GP clinic, many pharmacies, and local community immunisation clinics.

Because protecting yourself also helps protect your family and community.

Healthy families. Stronger communities.

01 April 2026

Protecting our mob means looking after your own health and ensuring you remain immunised against vaccine-preventable diseases. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can be at higher risk of some illnesses, especially diseases which can be prevented through vaccination.

That’s why some immunisations are recommended earlier, or more often, to keep our mob strong.

Why the risk can be higher

There are a few reasons why vaccine-preventable diseases can have a bigger impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across South Western Sydney.

These include:

higher rates of some chronic conditions, like diabetes, heart or lung disease
busy households, where infections can spread more easily
challenges accessing healthcare at the right time
the ongoing impacts of colonisation and inequality

Because of this, illnesses like flu, pneumococcal disease, whooping cough and hepatitis B can lead to more serious sickness, hospital stays, or sorry business.

Vaccination is one way to help protect yourself, your family and your community.

Why some vaccines are recommended earlier or more often

To give stronger protection, the National Immunisation Program includes extra recommendations for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

For example:

flu vaccine – recommended every year from six months of age
pneumococcal vaccines – an extra dose in the first year of life (totalling four doses)
hepatitis B vaccine – important for protection from birth
whooping cough (pertussis) – especially important during pregnancy to protect bub

These earlier or additional doses help your body build protection before you’re exposed to serious illness.

Learn more about what’s recommended:

National Immunisation Program Schedule

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander immunisation information

Protecting family, Elders and little ones

Getting immunised isn’t just about you. It helps protect:

Elders, who carry knowledge and are more vulnerable to serious illness
babies and young children, who need strong protection early
family members with ongoing health conditions

When more people in the community are immunised, it helps slow the spread of disease and keeps mob strong.

Where to go in South Western Sydney

You can get vaccines at:

your local GP
Aboriginal Medical Services and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services
community health clinics
local pharmacies (for some vaccines like flu)

Many vaccines are free for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples under the National Immunisation Program.

For the best protection, it’s a good idea to visit a GP or Aboriginal health service. They can:

check which vaccines you need under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander schedule
make sure you get them at the right time
keep your records up to date

Pharmacies can be a convenient option for some vaccines, like the flu shot, especially if you need something quick.

To find a service near you:

use the healthdirect Service Finder
free immunisation clinics near you
or connect with your local Aboriginal health service in South Western Sydney

Yarn with someone you trust

If you’re not sure what vaccines you or your family need, have a yarn with:

- your GP
- a practice nurse
- an Aboriginal health worker
- the NSW Health Local Public Health Unit

They can talk it through in a way that feels right for you.

Healthy families. Stronger South Western Sydney.

01 April 2026

Insights from the NSW Health International Winter Forum, with learnings from Canada and the UK.

Countries in the northern hemisphere have already experienced their winter season, offering an early indication of what Australia may face.

A key message was that prevention is critical. Health systems overseas anticipated significant seasonal pressure and implemented coordinated strategies. These insights highlight opportunities for primary care in Australia to support winter preparedness and reduce demand on emergency departments.

At a glance – what to do now

promote immunisation early
focus on patients aged 65+
reinforce healthdirect as a first step
prepare for an early influenza peak

What we’re likely to see this winter

Based on data from Canada and the UK:

RSV had a greater impact among older people, where vaccination was less prioritised, while rates in the paediatric population decreased significantly due to high vaccination uptake, including maternal vaccination during pregnancy
influenza arrived earlier than expected, with a short, sharp peak
COVID-19 remained present, with concern about declining vaccination rates
measles re-emerged unexpectedly in some regions
transmission often occurred from children to older adults, including grandparents
healthcare and aged care workers play an important role in prevention, including through immunisation and infection control

Vaccination remains our strongest protection

Across all presenters, one message was consistent:

Vaccination is the most effective way to reduce severe illness and hospitalisation.

Key insights:

strong recommendation to prioritise immunisation for people aged 65 and over
vaccine fatigue and misinformation are contributing to lower uptake
a common misconception is “I get the flu anyway”, the reality is vaccination significantly reduces severity and risk of hospitalisation

How vaccination protects individuals and the community

In Canada, most influenza vaccines were delivered through pharmacies, followed by primary care, highlighting the importance of multiple access points and ease of access.

Supporting patients to access the right care

Up to 60% of emergency department presentations may be avoidable.

Reducing this pressure relies on strong community awareness and clear care pathways before patients seek care.

In NSW, healthdirect (1800 022 222) plays a key role as an entry point for non-life-threatening conditions. It provides nurse triage and connects patients to appropriate services, including virtual care clinics (video consultations), where suitable.

Read about healthdirect virtual care clinics

NSW Health and Primary Health Networks have a role in building awareness of these pathways, helping the community access the right care at the right time.

What worked overseas

Health systems in Canada and the UK saw improved outcomes when they:

Started early

winter planning and communication began earlier than usual
early messaging improved vaccination uptake

Made vaccination easy

bringing vaccination to staff increased uptake
convenient access was critical

Used clear, consistent messaging

simple, repeated messages worked best
some regions shifted language from “vaccinate” to “immunise” to better connect with the community

Shared data transparently

public reporting of hospital impacts increased awareness and behaviour change

What primary care can do now

Primary care has a key role in reducing winter pressure on hospitals.

1. Proactively promote immunisation

focus on people aged 65 and over
reinforce that immunisation reduces severity, even if infection occurs

2. Start early and stay consistent

begin winter messaging now
keep messaging clear and varied to avoid “white noise”

SWSPHN is already supporting early awareness through the Immunisation Hero campaign, with socials, posters and billboards across South Western Sydney.

3. Address hesitancy directly

acknowledge vaccine fatigue
respond to misinformation with simple, factual messages

4. Support infection prevention

encourage patients, visitors and staff to stay home when infectious
reinforce hygiene and appropriate PPE use

Refer to NSW guidance on infection prevention and appropriate PPE use for respiratory illness

5. Guide patients to the right care

Promote healthdirect as a first point of contact
Support appropriate use of general practice, pharmacy, virtual care and urgent care, rather than emergency departments

NSW Health vaccination resources for providers

Aged care, workforce, and prevention

Aged care settings were identified as high risk due to intergenerational transmission and the vulnerability of residents. Reduced vaccination rates among healthcare and aged care workers were also noted as a concern overseas.

Workforce illness, including staff attending work while unwell, was identified as contributing to transmission and service pressure during peak periods. Staff should be encouraged to stay home when infectious to help reduce spread.

Improving staff immunisation can:

reduce transmission to vulnerable populations
protect workforce capacity during peak periods
support safer care environments

Encouraging staff and visitors to stay home when infectious is also an important part of reducing transmission in aged care settings.

NSW Health guidance on healthcare worker vaccination

Key takeaway

Keeping people well and out of hospital starts in the community.

Early action, strong immunisation uptake, and clear care pathways will be critical to managing the 2026 winter season.

Further resources for practice – Prepare your practice for winter

NSW Immunisation Toolkit for General Practice
NSW Health guidance on healthcare worker vaccination
NSW Health vaccination resources for providers
NSW guidance on infection prevention and appropriate PPE use for respiratory illness
Healthdirect Virtual Care Clinics

27 March 2026

Be an Immunisation Hero. Keeping up to date with your vaccinations helps protect you, your family, and our community.

In addition to visiting your GP or local pharmacist, free community immunisation days are available across South Western Sydney to make it easier to stay immunised.

These clinics are delivered by NSW Health’s South Western Sydney Local Health District Public Health Unit, and are open to eligible community members.

Public Health Unit

Free community immunisation days 2026

Bankstown LGA

Where	When
Bankstown Hospital Clinic Room 1, Allied Health Building, Bankstown Hospital, 70 Eldridge Road, Bankstown	Monday, 19 January 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Monday, 23 February 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Monday, 30 March 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Monday, 20 April 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Monday, 25 May 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Monday, 29 June 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Monday, 27 July 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Monday, 31 August 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Monday, 28 September 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Monday, 26 October 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Monday, 30 November 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Monday, 14 December 8.30am – 2.30pm
Bankstown Senior Citizens Centre, 7 West Terrace, Bankstown	Monday, 9 February 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Monday, 9 March 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Monday, 13 April 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Monday, 11 May 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Friday, 12 June 8.30am – 2.30pm

Camden LGA

Where	When
Narellan Library Ironbark Room, Corner Queen & Elyard St, Narellan	Tuesday, 13 January 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 17 February 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 17 March 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 14 April 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 12 May 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 9 June 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 14 July 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 11 August 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 15 September 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 13 October 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 10 November 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 8 December 9.30am – 2.30pm
Camden Senior Citizen’s Centre, 65 John St, Camden	Wednesday, 28 January 9.30am – 2.00pm
	Wednesday, 25 February 9.30am – 2.00pm
	Wednesday, 25 March 9.30am – 2.00pm
	Wednesday, 29 April 9.30am – 2.00pm
	Wednesday, 27 May 9.30am – 2.00pm
	Wednesday, 24 June 9.30am – 2.00pm
	Wednesday, 29 July 9.30am – 2.00pm
	Wednesday, 26 August 9.30am – 2.00pm
	Wednesday, 30 September 9.30am – 2.00pm
	Wednesday, 28 October 9.30am – 2.00pm
	Wednesday, 25 November 9.30am – 2.00pm

Campbelltown LGA

Where	When
Campbelltown Hospital Outpatients Consult Room, Corridor 1, Building D, Campbelltown Hospital, 1 Therry Road, Campbelltown	Thursday, 19 February 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Thursday, 19 March 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Thursday, 16 April 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 19 May 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Thursday, 18 June 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Thursday, 16 July 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Thursday, 20 August 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Thursday, 17 September 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Thursday, 15 October 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 17 November 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Thursday, 17 December 8.30am – 2.30pm
Campbelltown Library Meeting Room 2, Downtown Plaza, Shop 2.01, 147-157 Queen St, Campbelltown	Wednesday, 11 February 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Friday, 13 March 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 8 April 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 13 May 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 10 June 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 8 July 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 12 August 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 9 September 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 14 October 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 11 November 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 9 December 9.30am – 2.30pm

Fairfield LGA

Where	When
Fairfield Hospital Training Room, Cnr Polding Street and Prairievale Road, Prairiewood	Thursday, 22 January 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Friday, 13 February 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Thursday, 5 March 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 7 April 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Thursday, 7 May 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Thursday, 4 June 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Thursday, 2 July 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Monday, 10 August 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Thursday, 3 September 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 6 October 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Thursday, 5 November 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Friday, 4 December 8.30am – 2.30pm
Whitlam Library Heritage Room, 165 Railway Pde, Cabramatta	Friday, 20 February 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Friday, 20 March 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Friday, 17 April 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Friday, 22 May 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Friday, 19 June 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Friday, 17 July 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Friday, 21 August 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Friday, 18 September 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Friday, 23 October 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Friday, 20 November 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Friday, 18 December 9.30am – 2.30pm
Wetherill Park Library Technology Room, 561-583 Polding St, Wetherill Park	Wednesday, 4 February 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 4 March 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 1 April 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 6 May 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Monday, 22 June 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 1 July 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 5 August 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 2 September 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 7 October 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 4 November 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 2 December 9.30am – 2.30pm

Liverpool LGA

Where	When
Liverpool Hospital Clinic Room 117, Liverpool Hospital, Corner of Elizabeth and Goulburn Streets, Liverpool	Tuesday, 20 January 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 24 February 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 31 March 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 28 April 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 26 May 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 30 June 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 28 July 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 25 August 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 29 September 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 27 October 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 24 November 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 15 December 8.30am – 2.30pm
Green Valley District Centre, 179 Wilson Rd, Green Valley	Wednesday, 21 January 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Monday, 2 February 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 18 February 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 22 April 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Monday, 1 June 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 17 June 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Monday, 3 August 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 19 August 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Wednesday, 21 October 9.30am – 2.30pm
	Monday, 7 December 9.30am – 2.30pm
Michael Clarke Recreation Centre, Margaret Dawson Dr, Carnes Hill	Monday, 12 January 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 3 March 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 5 May 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 7 July 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Thursday, 23 July 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 8 September 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Thursday, 24 September 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Tuesday, 3 November 8.30am – 2.30pm
	Thursday, 19 December 8.30am – 2.30pm

Wingecarribee LGA

Where	When
Wingecarribee Community Health Centre, 22 Bendooley St, Bowral	to be confirmed.

Who can attend?

Community immunisation clinics are available for people who are eligible under the National Immunisation Program. This may include children, adolescents, and adults who are due or overdue for recommended vaccines.

If you’re unsure what vaccines you or your family need, speak to your GP or practice nurse.

What to bring

Medicare card (if you have one)
Any immunisation records or your child’s Blue Book
Details of previous vaccinations, if known

Why immunisation matters

Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect against serious diseases. Staying immunised helps reduce the spread of illness and protects those who are more vulnerable in our community.

Healthy families. Stronger communities.

Find out more

Contact NSW Health Public Health Unit or visit their website to make a booking or for more information about clinic locations, eligibility, and vaccines.

Call: 9794 0855
(Mon-Fri 8.30am – 5pm) or
Email: SWSLHD-PHUPriorityPopImms@health.nsw.gov.au
Website: NSW Health SWS Public Health Unit

17 March 2026

Your baby relies on you for protection from the very beginning. Getting the RSV vaccine during pregnancy is a simple way to help protect them from serious illness in their first months of life. It’s free under the National Immunisation Program and recommended at 28 to 36 weeks of pregnancy.

RSV is a common virus which infects the nose, throat and lungs. For many people it causes mild cold-like symptoms, but for very young babies it can be much more serious. RSV is a leading cause of childhood hospitalisation, and babies under six months are at the greatest risk of severe illness. Serious complications can include bronchiolitis and pneumonia.

How the RSV vaccine during pregnancy helps protect your baby

When you get the RSV vaccine during pregnancy, your body makes antibodies. These antibodies pass through the placenta to your baby and help protect them from RSV in their first months of life, when they are most vulnerable. Protection lasts for up to around six months, helping cover the time when babies are too young to build strong protection of their own.

Maternal immunisation reduces the risk of severe RSV disease in infants under six months by around 70%.

health.gov.au

These immunisations will reduce hospitalisation rates and keep an estimated 10,000 infants out of hospital each year.

When should I get it?

The RSV vaccine is recommended between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. This timing gives your body the chance to build protection and pass antibodies on to your baby before birth. Babies may not be fully protected unless they are born at least two weeks after their mother receives the vaccine.

Is it safe?

The Department of Health, Disability and Aging says the RSV vaccine during pregnancy is safe for both mother and baby. There is extensive evidence showing the safety of recommended maternal vaccines in pregnancy, and studies have found no evidence these vaccines harm unborn babies.

health.gov.au/maternalvaccinations

Is it free?

Yes. Eligible pregnant women can get the maternal RSV vaccine for free under the National Immunisation Program. The vaccine is available throughout the year.
National Immunisation Program

Where to get the RSV vaccine

You may be able to get the free maternal RSV vaccine from:

your obstetrician or midwife
your GP
a community health clinic
Aboriginal health services
a participating pharmacy

It’s a good idea to check with your provider before booking, because not every clinic or pharmacy may stock the free National Immunisation Program vaccine. While the vaccine is free, some providers may charge a consultation or administration fee.

Be an Immunisation Hero

Getting vaccinated during pregnancy is a simple step that can help protect your baby during their first, most vulnerable months.

Talk to your GP, midwife or pharmacist about the free RSV vaccine recommended during pregnancy.

Translated videos

RSV expert video with Dr Linny Kimly Phuong

Infectious diseases paediatrician Dr Linny explains what RSV is and answers frequently asked questions. Talk to your health professional about getting your free RSV vaccine.

This video, produced by Department of Health, Disability and Aging, has been translated into:

العربية(Arabic)

简体中文(Chinese Simplified)

繁體中文(Chinese Traditional)

English

Tiếng Việt(Vietnamese)

Translated fact sheet

This Department of Health, Disability and Aging factsheet provides information about the recommended vaccines available for pregnant women under the National Immunisation Program.

This fact sheet has been translated into:

العربية (Arabic)

简体中文 (Chinese Simplified)

繁體中文 (Chinese Traditional)

English

Tiếng Việt (Vietnamese)

16 March 2026

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases in the world, but it is also preventable.

Recent cases in Sydney, including South Western Sydney, mean the virus may be circulating in the community. NSW Health has identified a number of public exposure locations visited by infectious cases and continues to update the list as new information becomes available.

See the latest exposure locations on the NSW Health website.

Even if exposure sites are identified, measles can spread before people realise they are sick. This is why staying up-to-date with vaccination is the best protection for you, your family and the wider community.

Why measles vaccination matters

Measles spreads through the air when an infectious person coughs or sneezes, and the virus can linger in the air or on surfaces. If you are not protected, simply being in the same space as someone with measles can lead to infection.

For many people measles starts with fever, sore eyes, a runny nose and cough, followed by a red blotchy rash. However, the disease can also lead to serious complications such as pneumonia or inflammation of the brain.

Vaccination is highly effective. Two doses of the measles vaccine provide about 99% protection.

When most people in the community are immunised, it also protects babies, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems who may not be able to receive vaccines themselves.

Why are we seeing measles again?

Australia successfully eliminated ongoing measles transmission in 2014. However, measles is still common in some parts of the world. Most cases in Australia start when someone becomes infected overseas and returns while they are contagious. When vaccination coverage drops or people are not fully immunised, outbreaks can occur.

If you grew up overseas

Vaccination schedules vary around the world. Some people who grew up overseas may not have received two doses of measles vaccine, or may not have records of their vaccinations.

If you were born after 1965 and are unsure about your measles vaccination history, you may be able to receive free catch-up vaccination under the National Immunisation Program.

Your GP or practice nurse can check your records and organise vaccination if needed. If there is no documentation, it is safe to receive another dose.

Are you vaccinated against measles?

Most people in Australia receive measles vaccination as part of the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine.

You are likely protected if you:

have received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine, or
were born before 1966, when measles infection was common and most people developed natural immunity.

If you are unsure, your GP can help check your vaccination history.

Who can get the vaccine for free?

The measles vaccine is available free under the National Immunisation Program for:

children and young people under 19 years
people born after 1965 who have not had two doses
refugees and humanitarian entrants of any age if not been previously vaccinated

Where to get immunised

You can get vaccinated at:

your GP
some pharmacies (for people aged 5 years and over)
Aboriginal Medical Services and other vaccination providers
South Western Sydney Local Health District are running free vaccination clinics up to 16 April 2026

Your GP or practice nurse can help you check your vaccination history and organise any catch-up doses if needed.

Be an Immunisation Hero

Measles outbreaks can occur when vaccination coverage drops or when travellers bring the virus back from countries where measles is still common.

By staying up to date with vaccination, you help protect your family and people in our community who are most vulnerable.

Healthy families. Stronger communities.
Be an Immunisation Hero – speak to your GP or practice nurse about measles vaccination.

Refugees and Humanitarian Entrants: Available for free at any age if they have not been previously vaccinated.

2026 intakes are now full.

About Immuniser Pathways for Health Professionals

Scholarship criteria

What to expect

Flu vaccine

Who should get a flu vaccine?

Why should I get a flu vaccine?

Is vaccination safe?

Debunking the myth

Where do I get a flu vaccine?

Who can get a free flu vaccine?

How do I protect myself and others from the flu?

Find out more:

2026 respiratory illness resources (posters, factsheets, videos, brochures​​​):

Other respiratory illnesses

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine

COVID-19 vaccine

Free community immunisation days 2026

Winter wellness

Speak to your GP

Call healthdirect – 1800 022 222

Visit Urgent Care

Use the after-hours GP service

Influenza

Key messages

Eligibility and timing of vaccination

Co-administration with other vaccines

Preparing your practice

Vaccine storage

Localised influenza information for vaccination providers

NSW Health

2026 respiratory illness resources (posters, factsheets, videos, brochures​​​)

Department of Health, Disability and Ageing resources

Information for patients

Other respiratory illnesses

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

COVID-19

Other resources

The short answer

What many people don’t realise

Why yearly protection matters

It’s not just about you

Feeling unsure? You’re not alone

Be an Immunisation Hero

Why the risk can be higher

Why some vaccines are recommended earlier or more often

Protecting family, Elders and little ones

Where to go in South Western Sydney

Yarn with someone you trust

Healthy families. Stronger South Western Sydney.

What we’re likely to see this winter

Vaccination remains our strongest protection

Supporting patients to access the right care

What worked overseas

What primary care can do now

1. Proactively promote immunisation

2. Start early and stay consistent

3. Address hesitancy directly

4. Support infection prevention

5. Guide patients to the right care

Aged care, workforce, and prevention

Key takeaway

Further resources for practice – Prepare your practice for winter

Free community immunisation days 2026

Bankstown LGA

Camden LGA

Campbelltown LGA

Fairfield LGA

Liverpool LGA

Wingecarribee LGA

Who can attend?

What to bring

Why immunisation matters

Find out more

How the RSV vaccine during pregnancy helps protect your baby

When should I get it?

Is it safe?

Is it free?

Where to get the RSV vaccine

Be an Immunisation Hero

2026 respiratory illness resources (posters, factsheets, videos, brochures):

2026 respiratory illness resources (posters, factsheets, videos, brochures)