Getting vaccinated against influenza and COVID-19 is about to get a lot easier for aged care residents.

From next Monday, 29 April, the Federal Government will pay pharmacists to visit aged care homes and provide vaccinations with no cost to residents.

The government says funding for the program will be available until June 2026, with continuation subject to review.

National Seniors Australia (NSA) welcomes the initiative as a sensible way to overcome mobility and other barriers that stop residents from receiving the flu and COVID-19 shots.

Previously, residents had to visit a GP or hospital or doctors had to travel to the homes to administer the vaccines.

NSA Chief Executive Officer Chris Grice said, “While the flu vaccine has been available for people 65+ at no charge in GP clinics for some time, and at pharmacies, this is the first time the vaccine will be accessible to people in residential care via their pharmacist.

“GPs can be stretched visiting residential care facilities and many residents in care are not able to visit their GP.

“The ability for these residents to receive the vaccine in the convenience of their care facility, via a pharmacist, in addition to a GP, will help to ensure our most vulnerable Australians get the protection they need when they need it.”