Good news for 2026 — the Queensland Government is funding free flu vaccinations for every Queensland resident, regardless of age or Medicare status. No Medicare card required. That means the whole family can get vaccinated at no cost between 1 March and 30 September 2026.
Free flu vaccines are available now at Southport Metro Medical Centre. Call ahead to confirm stock and book your appointment — (07) 5612 7830. Vaccines can run out during peak season, so don’t leave it too long.
Who Is Eligible?
Everyone aged 6 months and older who lives in Queensland can get a free flu vaccine in 2026. You may be asked to provide proof of Queensland residency when you book or attend your appointment.
While everyone is eligible, vaccination is especially important for people at higher risk of serious illness from flu, including:
- Adults aged 65 and over
- Pregnant women
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
- Children aged 6 months to 5 years
- People with heart or lung conditions
- People with diabetes
- People with kidney disease
- People with a weakened immune system
- People who are severely obese
- Carers of young children or the elderly
- Healthcare workers
- Anyone wanting protection against flu
FluMist — The Needle-Free Option for Kids
For children aged 2 to 17, there’s now a needle-free alternative called FluMist. It’s a nasal spray vaccine — just a quick squirt in each nostril — and it’s just as effective as the injection. If your child isn’t a fan of needles, this is a great option.
FluMist is free for eligible Queensland residents aged 2–17 under the 2026 program. Call ahead to confirm we have it in stock before your appointment — (07) 5612 7830.
About the Flu
Influenza is more serious than a common cold. Every year in Australia, flu causes thousands of hospitalisations and hundreds of deaths — mostly in elderly people, young children, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions. Even healthy adults can be knocked out for a week or more.
The flu vaccine is updated annually to match the strains expected to circulate that season. Getting vaccinated protects you, and also helps protect people around you who can’t be vaccinated — including very young babies and people undergoing chemotherapy.
Flu season in Queensland typically peaks between June and August. We recommend getting vaccinated before the end of May to ensure you’re protected when it matters most.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a GP appointment for a flu vaccine?
For eligible patients, you don’t need a full GP consultation — but you do need to book a vaccine appointment specifically. Call us on (07) 5612 7830 to arrange this. If you’d like to discuss anything with a doctor at the same time, let reception know so enough time is allocated.
Is the flu vaccine free if I don’t have a Medicare card?
Yes. The 2026 Queensland Government flu vaccine program is available to all Queensland residents regardless of Medicare status. You may be asked to confirm Queensland residency.
Can my whole family get vaccinated on the same day?
Yes, we can book back-to-back appointments for family members. Call reception and we’ll sort out a time that works for everyone.
Can I get the flu vaccine at the same time as other vaccines?
In many cases, yes. Your GP or nurse will advise on this at the appointment. For children’s routine vaccinations, let reception know when booking so the right time is allocated.
What are the common side effects?
Most people have no significant side effects. A sore arm at the injection site is common and usually settles within a day or two. Some people feel mildly tired or achy for 24 hours afterwards. Serious reactions are very rare.
Can the flu vaccine give me the flu?
No. The flu vaccine does not contain live virus and cannot cause influenza. Mild symptoms after vaccination (like fatigue or a sore arm) are a normal immune response, not the flu.
Related Services
Get your free flu vaccine
Open 7 days at Australia Fair Metro, Scarborough St, Southport. Call ahead to confirm stock.
Book OnlineOr call (07) 5612 7830