Immunisation Weekly Update:
The National Immunisation Program (NIP) 2026 influenza program will commence from April onwards, and providers should ensure that they are prepared and familiar with patient eligibility vaccine details.
Influenza vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older. Free influenza vaccines are available for eligible people under the National Immunisation Program (NIP).
NSW Health’s Influenza Information Sheet outlines the vaccines for the 2026 NIP program and the cohorts they are to be used for.
Some key points for the 2026 season include:
Access important resources below:
The recording of CESPHN’s Annual Immunisation Update for 2026 is now available to view online.
The session covered the latest 2026 guidelines for vaccine-preventable diseases, including Influenza, COVID-19, and RSV, examined declining vaccination coverage within the CESPHN region and outlined practical strategies to address vaccine hesitancy in clinical practice. In addition, it provided updates on Japanese encephalitis recommendations, and rabies prevention including post-exposure prophylaxis guidelines, to support best practice in patient care.
Access the recording via this link: CESPHN Annual Immunisation Update
The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing has released a range of new influenza vaccination posters designed for display in GP practices, medical clinics, hospitals, pharmacies, and Aboriginal health services.
You can order a printed copy of these by contacting National Mailing and Marketing at health@nationalmailing.com.au. Provide the Order ID number quoted on the webpage, your desired quantity, and your delivery address.
Vaccine providers should be aware that the influenza intranasal (live attenuated) vaccine for 2 – 5 year olds is produced on porcine type A (gelatin) according to the Australian Product Information for FluMist.
Patients of Muslim or Jewish faiths should be advised of this, as they may wish to instead opt for the influenza injection Vaxigrip, for 6 month – 5 year olds, which does not contain pork products.
| Thursday 23 April 2026, 12:00-13:30 AEDT Online | RSV vaccines and prevention programs: evidence, safety and impact In this webinar, experts will discuss: disease burden, with a focus on older adults RSV immunisation products, including data on effectiveness, safety and uptakenational, state and territory RSV prevention programsreal‑world case studies and tips for discussing RSV vaccinationpractical considerations for implementing RSV immunisation, including co‑administration and approaches to minimising errorsa live Q&A with experts. Please use the following link to register: NCIRS RSV Webinar Registration |
| Thursday 30 April 2026, 08:30-18:00 AEDT Rydges Sydney Central 28 Albion Street Surry Hills | Benchmarque 2026 Immunisation Professional Development Conference This one day in-person event will include sessions addressing vaccine hesitancy, travel vaccinations, priority populations and an update on winter respiratory conditions in advance of the 2026 season. The events also include an evening networking event. View the full program here. |
| Thursday 14 May 2026, 18:30-21:00 AEDT The Juniors Kingsford | Vaccination across the lifespan: A comprehensive vaccination workshop From antenatal immunisation that protects mums and newborns, to infant and childhood vaccines, adolescent boosters, and the essential vaccines for older adults – this workshop covers the full immunisation journey. We’ll unpack the latest recommendations for the 2026 winter season, common pain points, and real‑world challenges seen in clinical practice. The session also includes a hands‑on practical component focused on vaccinating infants and young children—featuring tips, tricks, positioning techniques, distraction methods, and strategies for managing needle‑phobia and distress Please use the following link to register: Vaccination across the lifespan: A comprehensive vaccination workshop |
| Monday 15 June 2026, 09:00 AEST – Wednesday 17 June 2026, 15:00 AEST Marvel Stadium, Melbourne | Public Health Association Australia: Communicable Diseases & Immunisation Conference 2026 Please use the following link to register: Registration | CDIC 2026 |
