You’ve probably seen on TV or social media information about the COVID-19 vaccines. The Federal Government is in charge of making sure everyone in Australia has the opportunity to get the COVID-19 vaccine. If you haven’t received your vaccine yet, you can check your eligibility and find a clinic here.
Remember, as with any medical decision, it is so important to talk it over with a medical professional if you have any questions or concerns, to help decide if the vaccine is right for you. Your doctor can help answer any questions you might have.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the vaccine options available?
At the moment, there are three types of vaccines available in Australia – Moderna, Pfizer and AstraZeneca. Pfizer or Moderna are currently the preferred vaccines for young people 16 and over. The most up to date information on the roll-out will come from your state government and their Department of Health – we’ve listed these pages below. You may choose to get the AstraZeneca vaccine, but generally, young people would be receiving either Pfizer or Moderna. If you’re a young person and want more information on any of the vaccines, you can book in with your doctor to discuss which option is right for you. Head here to learn more about these vaccine options.
State-based health information
QLD,ACT ,NSW, SA, WA, NT, TAS, ACT
Do I have to get the vaccine?
The vaccine isn’t mandatory which means you can choose whether or not to get vaccinated – but the Australian Government is recommending everyone who is eligible receives a vaccine to help protect themselves and the community from the spread of COVID-19, and from getting really sick. Some states will require you to be fully vaccinated in order to participate in certain activities – your state government health page will be able to give you more information or if you have questions about the vaccine, talk to your doctor.
How do I know if I am eligible?
The Federal Government has put together a tool for you to test your eligibility here. It will also help you to find a clinic or doctor to book in with if you choose to get the vaccine.
What should I do to prepare?
First things first, you’ll need to book your appointment! You will also need to make sure your details are all up to date through Medicare. Make sure you don’t attend your appointment if you are feeling unwell, and talk to your doctor if you are feeling worried or unsure. This leaflet provides more information on how you can prepare.
Getting your digital vaccination certificate
Some employers and venues are requesting proof of vaccination before you can come to work, or enter a business. If you have MyGov, your medicare will show you COVID-19 vaccine status. This article walks you through the process of finding your digital certificate, and what to do if you don’t have the medicare app set up or access to medicare.
Is the vaccine safe?
The vaccine has gone through rigourous testing with the TGA to make sure it is safe and effective. For more information, check out this video:
How do I learn more about vaccine safety and the risks?
You can head here to find out more information about the COVID-19 vaccines.
Other information
With COVID-19 remaining an ever-present issue, we wanted to make sure we had some up to date information available. While we’ve all been handling life alongside COVID-19 for a while, it’s really important to remember the steps we can take to stay safe.
- Listen to Government Health advice. You can stay up to date by through ABC News Livestream, or through news accounts like @thedailyaus on Instagram.
- Wash your hands, wear a mask and physically distance when out and about. Depending on government advice, you may have to wear a mask when leaving your house. If you live in a state that doesn’t require a mask, make sure you keep physically distancing anyway – and don’t forget to wash your hands!
- If you’ve got ANY symptoms, stay home and get tested!
- If you’re eligible, ask your doctor about the COVID-19 vaccine.
- Keep up-to-date on health advise, restrictions and lockdowns via your states Health Department.
State-based information
QLD,ACT ,NSW, SA, WA, NT, TAS, ACT
Links and Resources:
Australia-wide:
Vaccine Information
Booking service and eligibility checker
General advice
Information for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People
CREATE Resources
We have a range of videos for kids featuring Gus the Gorilla talking about COVID-19 and some of the impacts. Take a look below and on our YouTube Channel! Head here for more of CREATE’s video resources.
Mental health resources
HeadSpace, Lifeline, Kids Helpline
