Australia's vaccination efforts to protect us from the worst of COVID-19 are now well underway - more than 22 million COVID-19 vaccine doses have been given across the country.
For those yet to get vaccinated, depending on what part of the country you live in there are now multiple avenues, including seeing a GP, going to a state-run vaccination hub, or even to a participating pharmacy. At the bottom of this post are links to where you can get vaccinated in your home state.
Vaccines strengthen your immune system by training it to recognise and fight against specific viruses. But when you get vaccinated you're not just protecting yourself, you are helping to protect the whole community. As more and more Australians are vaccinated against COVID-19 it will mean fewer public health restrictions and the ability for states currently in lockdowns to return to in-person activities.
COVID-19 vaccinations in Australia are free and available to people aged over 16. The vaccine is delivered in two doses, which you will get several weeks apart to make sure your body can develop the maximum immunity against COVID-19. You will be fully vaccinated once you have received both doses.
As you may be aware, currently there are two vaccines available, AstraZeneca and Pfizer. A third vaccine, called Moderna, is expected to become available in Australia later in 2021. All of these vaccines have been used across the world and been found to be safe and effective at preventing serious illness from COVID-19.
All vaccines in Australia are safe and have undergone rigorous checks by Australia's medicine regulator, the Therapeutic Goods Administration. If a vaccine was not safe, it would not be used or available. If you have any concerns speak with your doctor so you can understand how best to protect yourself and the people you love from the impact of COVID-19.
All vaccinations in Australia, including the COVID-19 vaccines, are voluntary but in some industries where they're more at risk of spreading COVID-19 or other diseases, such as healthcare, there are requirements people be vaccinated. This is so our community can stay safe.
While discussion of the vaccine can seem overwhelming at times. Social media might have lots of advice, but it’s not always the most reliable source of information so be careful to stick to reliable sources, such as government websites, health bodies, and reputable news outlets. Your doctor will be able to help you too.
Please continue to follow public health instruction in your state, wash your hands, and wear a mask where you can't reasonably social distance. Flourish Australia will continue to keep you updated as the vaccine rollout continues. You can also follow developments at australia.gov.au.
For the latest news on current restrictions or to book a COVID-19 vaccination please follow these links:
New South Wales
https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/covid-19
https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/book-covid-vaccination
Victoria
https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus
https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/book-your-vaccine-appointment
Queensland
https://www.health.qld.gov.au/clinical-practice/guidelines-procedures/novel-coronavirus-qld-clinicians
https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19/protect-yourself-others/covid-19-vaccine/book/vaccination-locations
Australian Capital Territory
https://www.covid19.act.gov.au/
https://www.covid19.act.gov.au/stay-safe-and-healthy/vaccine/book-a-vaccination-appointment
