Pfizer and Moderna vaccines will be available to people of any age through state-run vaccination centres, not just those under 60, the Victorian Government has announced today.
Minister for Health, Martin Foley says the change has been made possible following a boost to Moderna and Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine supply, and an “extraordinary number of young Victorians” stepping up to receive their first dose of the vaccine.
“With all vaccines open to all Victorians aged 12 and over, and plenty of appointments available, there’s no reason not to book your jab today,” Mr Foley said.
“Victorians have done their duty by getting vaccinated in extraordinary numbers – and it’s those Victorians who will be able to go and do the things they love with the people they love when we reach our targets.”
He said Victoria was well on the way to becoming one of the world’s most vaccinated jurisdictions.
As of yesterday, 86% of Victorians aged 16 and over had received their first dose – including 93% of people aged 50 and over, more than 95% of people aged 70 and over, and 64% of people aged between 12 and 15.
Victorians 60 and over can book to receive Pfizer or Moderna at any of Victoria’s vaccination centres from today, the Minister said.
All Victorians can also walk-up without a booking to receive the Moderna mRNA vaccine at many state-run vaccination centres – because Victoria’s week of walk-up Moderna access is now in place permanently at:
- Sandown Racecourse
- Palm Plaza, Dandenong
- Bayside Centre, Frankston
- Barries Rd, Melton
- Ford Factory, Campbellfield
- Royal Exhibition Building
- MCEC
- Sunshine Hospital
- Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre
- Latrobe Uni, Bundoora
- Eastland Shopping Centre
- Shepparton Showgrounds
- Traralgon Racecourse
- Kiarivu Barracks, Mildura
With Victoria preparing to open retail, restaurants, events and more in time for summer, the Victorian Government has also launched a new campaign to remind everyone that your vaccination is your ticket.
The new vaccination campaign, to run on TVs, radios, print and online, captures the excitement of ordinary Victorians getting back to doing the things we love, like dining, sport, travel, work, and most importantly, seeing family and friends – in a safe way.
As announced as part of Victoria’s Roadmap to Deliver the National Plan and in order to protect the community and our health system, these freedoms won’t apply in the same way to Victorians who aren’t vaccinated.
Every unvaccinated Victorian with COVID-19 is far more likely to get seriously unwell, require hospitalisation, or even die – particularly if they are older Victorians. Every unvaccinated Victorian with COVID-19 is far more likely to get seriously unwell, require hospitalisation, or even die – particularly if they are older Victorians, the Health Minister said.
Victorians can book a state-run centre by visiting www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au or calling 1800 675 398, or through their local GP or pharmacist by visiting covid-vaccine.healthdirect.gov.au/eligibility.
