Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that can cause serious illness, hospitalisation, and in some cases death — particularly in babies, older adults, and people with certain health conditions. The good news is that protection against RSV has expanded significantly in Victoria, with new free vaccines now available for more people in our community.
What Is RSV?
RSV spreads through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and can survive on surfaces for several hours. In Victoria, RSV cases most commonly occur between April and September, peaking in June and July. While RSV can feel like a mild cold for most healthy adults, it can be very dangerous for:
– Babies and young children (particularly under 6 months)
– Adults aged 75 and over
– Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples aged 60 and over
– People with chronic heart, lung, or immune conditions
In 2025 alone, Australia recorded almost 180,000 cases of RSV nationwide, with over 40,000 cases in adults over 60.
Who Is Now Eligible for a Free RSV Vaccine?
1. Adults Aged 75 and Over
From 15 May 2026, the RSV vaccine Arexvy is free under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for all Australians aged 75 and over.
This is a significant change — previously, eligible adults had to purchase this vaccine privately, at a cost of around $300. Now, if you are 75 or older, you can receive one free dose of Arexvy at your GP clinic or participating immunisation provider.
Key things to know:
– It is a single dose — it is not an annual vaccine like the flu shot
– It provides protection for at least two to three RSV seasons
– It can be given at the same visit as your flu, COVID-19, pneumococcal, or shingles vaccine
– The best time to get vaccinated is before the RSV season begins (ideally before April), but it can be given at any time of year
– If you have already received an RSV vaccine privately before the program started, you do not need another dose at this time
2. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Aged 60–74
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples aged 60–74 years are also eligible for a free dose of Arexvy under the NIP from 15 May 2026, recognising the higher burden of respiratory illness in this community.
3. Adults Aged 60–74 (Without Specific Risk Factors)
If you are aged 60–74 and do not have specific medical risk conditions, an RSV vaccine is recommended but not yet funded under the NIP. You may wish to discuss privately purchasing the vaccine with your doctor. People in this age group have a lower risk of severe RSV disease than those 75 and over, but may still benefit.
4. Pregnant Women
Since 3 February 2025, the RSV vaccine Abrysvo is free under the NIP for eligible pregnant women.
A single dose is recommended from 28 weeks of pregnancy (up to 36 weeks) at every pregnancy, to protect your newborn from birth through to 6 months of age. Research shows that RSV vaccination in pregnancy reduces the risk of severe RSV infection requiring medical attention in babies under 6 months by at least 70%.
It can safely be given at the same time as your free flu and whooping cough vaccines and is available year-round at your local General Practice.
5. Eligible Babies and Young Children
The Victorian Government-funded infant RSV immunisation program runs from mid-March to 30 September 2026. It provides an RSV monoclonal antibody called nirsevimab (Beyfortus) as a single injection to protect eligible babies from serious RSV infection such as bronchiolitis.
Your baby may be eligible if their mother did not receive the RSV vaccine during pregnancy, or if your baby has certain medical conditions that increase their risk of severe RSV. Most babies will only need protection from either the maternal vaccine or the nirsevimab injection — not both.
Nirsevimab is available at participating maternity hospitals, GP clinics, Aboriginal medical services, and community health immunisation clinics.
What If I Don’t Fit These Groups?
– Adults aged 50–59 with medical risk conditions (such as chronic lung or heart disease) can consider purchasing an RSV vaccine privately — speak with your doctor about whether this is right for you.
– Adults under 50 without medical risk conditions are not currently eligible, as no RSV vaccine is registered for this group in Australia.
How Do I Access the Vaccine?
Contact our clinic to book your RSV vaccination appointment. The vaccine can be conveniently given at the same visit as your other recommended vaccinations. All RSV vaccinations must be recorded on the Australian Immunisation Register.
If you are unsure whether you or your child are eligible, our team is happy to help — please call our clinic.
This information is current as of May 2026. Eligibility criteria may be updated as the program evolves. Please speak with your GP for personalised advice.