- Cook Government's free flu vaccination program kicks off 1 May
- WA community urged to get vaccinated against influenza as winter looms
- Ensuring all Western Australians have access to quality, affordable health care a key priority for the Cook Government
The Cook Government is encouraging Western Australians to get a free flu vaccination during May and June to protect themselves during the peak influenza period.
All Western Australians older than six months are eligible for the vaccine, and getting vaccinated will help reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalisation this winter.
Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can lead to life-threatening complications.
The peak period for influenza transmission in Western Australia is typically June to September.
However, there are already higher than usual influenza cases in WA for this time of year.
Up to 12 March 2025, WA has reported 3,442 influenza cases in the year to date.
The community is urged to get their influenza vaccine as soon as possible, especially young children, older adults, and those with underlying medical conditions.
It is especially recommended for people aged over 65, who are at higher risk of serious complications from influenza.
Outside of May and June, free flu vaccines are also available through the National Immunisation Program (NIP) or State-funded program for people considered most at risk of severe illness, including:
- pregnant women (at any stage of pregnancy);
- people older than 65;
- children from six months to year 6;
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over six months; and
- people who are immunocompromised or have serious medical conditions.
To access a free flu vaccine in May and June, people can book an appointment at participating GPs, community pharmacies, Aboriginal Medical Services,nurse practitioner clinics, corporate vaccination service providers and community health clinics.
While the vaccine is free, individual providers may charge a consultation or service fee.
As stated by Premier Roger Cook:
"My government will never stop working towards making Western Australia the healthiest state in the nation.
"The State Government's free flu program has the potential to be the difference between life and death for some Western Australians.
"Ensuring you're vaccinated against influenza is the best defence against the virus developing into serious illness over winter.
"We have the strongest economy in the country and the fastest-growing population - and my government's free flu program allows us all do our bit to stay healthy and ease pressure on the health system."
As stated by Health Minister Meredith Hammat:
"There has been an increase in the number of flu-related hospitalisations in recent years and with winter approaching I encourage our community to take up this opportunity and get vaccinated.
"The northern hemisphere has experienced a severe flu season, which had significant impacts on hospitals and people's ability to access timely health care.
"We don't want to see that here - let's do what we can to stay healthy this winter."
As stated by Preventative Health Minister Sabine Winton:
"We know that influenza can make some people very unwell, especially older adults, young children and pregnant women who are most at risk of severe complications from the flu.
"That's why it's so important that people prevent sickness this flu season by continuing to practise good hygiene habits - wash your hands, stay home if you're unwell, and stay up to date with your vaccinations.
"Getting vaccinated helps to protect you and others in the community who may be vulnerable - let's all do our part to keep WA well."
