Young people who missed any routine childhood vaccinations, can get free catch up vaccines until they turn 20 years old. They can also have the HPV (Human papillomavirus) vaccine until they turn 26 years old.
Health advice about meningococcal B vaccine
The meningococcal B vaccine is free for eligible Queensland infants, children, and adolescents. The Queensland Government has more information about the menB vaccination program.
Free flu vaccinations
Getting a yearly flu vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and over.
Your child can get the free nasal spray vaccine if they’re aged between 2 to 5 years old (before they turn 6). They can also get it if they’re aged between 6 and 17 years old (before they turn 18) and they struggle with getting a needle.
Vaccination schedule
Your child might need to get 2 to 4 different vaccines at certain ages. It’s also important that they get their vaccines on time.
If your child has medically at-risk conditions, they may need extra vaccines. Talk to your vaccination service provider for more information.
Year 7 students (or age equivalent)
All adolescents should get the following vaccinations:
- human papillomavirus (HPV), given as one dose
- dTpa (diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough), given as one dose
- influenza every year.
Year 10 students (or age equivalent)
All adolescents should get the following vaccinations:
- meningococcal ACWY, given as one dose
- meningococcal B, given as 2 doses
- influenza every year.
The Queensland School Immunisation Program
Students in year 7 and 10 in get free vaccinations through the Queensland School Immunisation Program.
You’ll need to fill in, sign and return the consent form your child brings home from school so they can be vaccinated.
You can also get the consent form and information sheet on the Queensland Government website.
If your child is home schooled or doesn’t go to a mainstream school, they can still get free vaccines. They should be vaccinated in the same academic year the vaccines are given through the school program.
If your child isn't vaccinated at school
If your child misses a vaccine, there are places they can go to catch up, including:
- your GP or other immunisation service provider
- a catch up school clinic
- a community immunisation clinic
- local pharmacy.
The vaccines are free, but there may be a consultation fee.
Catch ups
Children and adolescents can get the following free vaccinations if they missed one.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) – before they turn 26 years old
- dTpa, meningococcal ACWY and meningococcal B – before they turn 20 years old
Tips for parents
Some children can be nervous about vaccinations. If your child is worried, talk with them about what will happen and let them know you’ll be there with them.
You can also help them by making sure they:
- have a good breakfast
- are wearing loose clothes
- are feeling well before their vaccination
- let their nurse or immunisation provider know if they’re feeling nervous or unwell.
Vaccination information in your language
You can find information about vaccination in your language on the Queensland Government website.
You can also watch our video.
Before you start it, select CC to choose your language.
Where to get vaccinated
Getting vaccinated is easy. You can get your vaccination from a GP, pharmacy, community clinic, or another vaccination provider.
You can get the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as your flu vaccine.
Find out where to get vaccinated.
Find out more
For more information about vaccination, contact your health provider or call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) .