Community news: COVID-19 vaccines

As part of the COVID-19 vaccination roll-out, more Victorian school students are now eligible to receive the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. All students aged 16 and older can now book a Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine at state vaccination centres. 

The Victorian Government aims to vaccinate all final year students by the time they sit their end-of-year exams. Final year students are therefore urged to immediately make an appointment to receive a vaccine by following the instructions under the heading ‘How to book an appointment’ below.

The state vaccination centres have recently had their capacity increased to support Victoria’s drive to administer 1 million doses of the vaccine by 19 September.

Students will be supported in every way possible to be vaccinated before the 

examinations begin.

Students completing their final year are particularly asked to book an appointment as soon as possible to support the safe conduct of examinations. 

As their parent/guardian, I encourage you to help them to book and if needed, support them to attend their appointment.

Final year students are asked to consider getting their first vaccine before the GAT on 9 September. In addition, it’s recommended not to get the vaccine on the day of an exam, or the day before an exam - to avoid feeling common but mild side effects such as tiredness, headache, muscle pain, fever and chills and/or joint pain during your exam. 

Consent

Students can book their own appointment and consent to vaccination themselves if the health professional assesses them to be a mature minor.

How to book an appointment

To book an appointment, visit the coronavirus.vic.gov.au website or contact the Coronavirus hotline by phoning 1800 675 398.

To find a vaccination centre and opening times, visit the coronavirus.vic.gov.au website.

From 30 August, people aged 16–39 can get their COVID-19 vaccine at a doctor’s clinic, pharmacy or community health service through the Australian Government Eligibility Checker. You can book your appointment online or by calling the vaccine provider nearest to you.

More information 

Translated advice about the vaccines is available on the coronavirus.vic.gov.au website. 

For more information about eligibility, visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au or use the Australian Government’s COVID-19 vaccine eligibility checker.

Further assistance 

Department of Health Coronavirus hotline: 1800 675 398

National coronavirus and COVID-19 vaccine helpline: 1800 020 080