Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults aged 25 years and over are now eligible for a free pneumococcal vaccine under the National Immunisation Program (NIP), following important changes to the immunisation schedule introduced on 1 July 2026.
The Australian Government has updated the adult pneumococcal vaccination program with the introduction of the 21-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (21vPCV), Capvaxive.
The new vaccine provides broader protection against pneumococcal disease, simplifies the adult vaccination schedule and replaces Prevenar 13 and Pneumovax 23 for adults receiving pneumococcal vaccination through the NIP.
Capvaxive is now recommended and available free of charge for:
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults aged 25 years and over
- Adults aged 65 years and over
- Adults aged 18 years and over with specified medical conditions that increase their risk of severe pneumococcal disease.
These changes lower the recommended age for routine pneumococcal vaccination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults and expand protection against 21 strains of pneumococcal disease.
Pneumococcal vaccination continues to be recommended for:
- All infants and children under five years of age, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.
- People of any age with specified medical conditions increase their risk of severe pneumococcal disease.
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults aged 25 years and over.
- Adults aged 65 years and over.
Vaccination is the most effective way to reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalisation and complications.
By getting vaccinated, you can protect yourself, your families and your communities.
The free pneumococcal vaccine is available through Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs), general practices (GPs), participating pharmacies and other immunisation providers.
If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person aged 25 years or over, speak with your local ACCHO, GP or vaccination provider to check your eligibility and ensure your pneumococcal vaccinations are up to date.
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