The RSV vaccine is free in Australia for specific eligible groups under the National Immunisation Program. It is not free for every Australian. Eligibility depends on age, pregnancy status, and whether you are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.
This guide explains who qualifies for free RSV protection in 2026, how infant protection works, who may need to pay, and what to ask your GP before booking.
Information reviewed: June 2026. Eligibility, funding and program rules may change, so confirm current details before booking.
Key Takeaways
- The RSV vaccine is free under the National Immunisation Program for pregnant women from 28 to 36 weeks during each pregnancy.
- From 15 May 2026, Arexvy is NIP-funded for adults aged 75 and over and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults aged 60 and over.
- Other adults aged 60 to 74 are generally not covered by the NIP and may need to pay privately.
- Eligible infants and young children in NSW may receive nirsevimab, a long-acting monoclonal antibody rather than an RSV vaccine.
- The vaccine product may be free for eligible patients, but a consultation or service fee may still apply.
Who Can Get a Free RSV Vaccine Under the NIP?
The Australian Government Department of Health confirms the following eligibility groups under the NIP in 2026:
| Eligible Group | Free Under NIP? | Key Detail |
| Pregnant women from 28 to 36 weeks | Yes | Abrysvo, one funded dose during each pregnancy |
| Adults aged 75 and over | Yes | Arexvy, single dose, from 15 May 2026 |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults aged 60 and over | Yes | Arexvy, single dose, from 15 May 2026 |
| Other adults aged 60 to 74 | Generally no | May consider private vaccination |
| Eligible infants and young children in NSW | Separate NSW program | May receive nirsevimab, a long-acting monoclonal antibody rather than a vaccine |
Adults aged 60 to 74 who do not fall within another funded category are not currently covered under the NIP. They may still consider private vaccination after discussing their age, health history and RSV risk with a healthcare professional.
Is the RSV Vaccine Free During Pregnancy?
Yes. The maternal RSV vaccine Abrysvo is free under the NIP for pregnant women from 28 to 36 weeks of pregnancy. It is recommended during each pregnancy.
When a pregnant woman receives Abrysvo, antibodies transfer through the placenta to help protect the baby against RSV after birth. The Department of Health notes that this passive immunisation can help protect the infant for up to six months from birth. Your GP or midwife can confirm timing and suitability based on your individual pregnancy.
Patients can also discuss pregnancy vaccination and other healthcare needs through the women’s health services available at Cameron Park Healthcare.
Are Babies Eligible for a Free RSV Vaccine?
Babies do not receive the maternal RSV vaccine. Abrysvo and Arexvy are not approved for use in infants or children.
Eligible infants may instead receive nirsevimab, also known as Beyfortus. Nirsevimab is a long-acting monoclonal antibody that provides ready-made antibodies against RSV; it is not a vaccine.
Under the NSW RSV Prevention Program, eligible infants up to six months of age may receive funded nirsevimab if:
- their mother did not receive Abrysvo during pregnancy
- they were born within two weeks of their mother receiving Abrysvo
- they have specified risk factors for severe RSV disease
- maternal vaccination may not have provided adequate protection because of certain clinical circumstances
Children up to 24 months entering their second or a later RSV season may also qualify if they have specified risk factors for severe RSV illness. Parents should confirm eligibility and ask whether their provider can arrange the product before booking.
Who May Need to Pay for RSV Vaccination?
Adults aged 60 to 74 who are not Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander are not currently funded under the NIP. The NCIRS notes these adults may still consider vaccination based on individual health risks, but this would generally require private purchase.
Without NIP funding, RSV vaccination would typically cost around $300. The final amount may vary between providers, and prescription, consultation or administration fees may also apply.
Adults with chronic respiratory conditions, heart disease, or weakened immune systems who fall outside funded groups may wish to discuss vaccination with their GP. Cameron Park Healthcare provides chronic disease management and general medical care. A GP can discuss whether private RSV vaccination may be suitable based on your age, medical history and individual risk factors.
Can There Still Be a Fee for an NIP-Funded RSV Vaccine?
For eligible patients, the NIP covers the vaccine product. However, a GP, pharmacy or other vaccination provider may still charge a consultation or service fee. Ask about possible charges when booking so you understand what, if anything, you may need to pay.
Why RSV Protection Matters for Higher-Risk Groups
RSV is a common virus that causes mild symptoms in most people but can lead to serious illness in higher-risk individuals. Severe RSV illness is more likely in young infants, premature babies, older adults and people with certain heart, lung or immune conditions. Maternal vaccination is offered during pregnancy because antibodies made after vaccination can pass through the placenta and help protect the baby after birth.
The funded programs focus on groups more likely to experience severe RSV illness and on maternal vaccination that provides passive protection to newborn babies.
Older patients can discuss recommended immunisations as part of aged care services or a general health assessment at Cameron Park Healthcare.
How to Check Your Eligibility Before Booking
Before arranging an RSV vaccination appointment, confirm:
- your age and current NIP eligibility
- your pregnancy stage, where relevant
- whether Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander age-based eligibility applies
- whether your infant or child meets NSW program criteria
- whether the provider stocks or can arrange the correct product
- whether consultation or administration fees apply
If you are unsure about your eligibility, contact Cameron Park Healthcare to ask whether RSV vaccination is currently available, whether you meet the current program criteria, and whether any consultation or service fee may apply.
FAQs
Is the RSV vaccine free for everyone in Australia?
No. It is free under the NIP only for pregnant women at 28 to 36 weeks, adults aged 75 and over, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults aged 60 and over.
Is the RSV vaccine free for pregnant women?
Yes. Abrysvo is NIP-funded from 28 to 36 weeks of pregnancy and is recommended during each pregnancy.
Can babies get the RSV vaccine?
Babies do not receive the maternal or older-adult RSV vaccines. In NSW, eligible infants up to six months and some higher-risk children up to 24 months may receive funded nirsevimab, a long-acting monoclonal antibody.
How much does private RSV vaccination cost?
Without NIP funding, RSV vaccination would typically cost around $300. The final price may vary, and prescription, consultation or administration fees may also apply.
Can a clinic charge a fee for a free RSV vaccine?
Yes. For eligible patients, the NIP funds the vaccine product, but a provider may still charge a consultation or service fee. Confirm possible charges before booking.
Before You Book
RSV funding in 2026 applies only to defined NIP groups, while eligible infants and young children follow the separate NSW nirsevimab program. Before booking, confirm your eligibility, product availability and any consultation or service fee with your provider.
To discuss your RSV eligibility or broader winter immunisation needs, you can book a GP consultation at Cameron Park Healthcare.
References and Further Reading
- Australian Government Department of Health — RSV Vaccination Program
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS)
- Australian Government — Free RSV Vaccine for Older Australians
- Better Health Channel Victoria — RSV Information
- RACGP — RSV Vaccination and National Immunisation Program Guidance
