COVID-19 Vaccine in Point Cook
COVID-19 is still around, and older people and those with weakened immune systems remain the most likely to become seriously unwell. If you are due for a COVID-19 vaccine in Point Cook, our GPs can check your eligibility and give the dose at the clinic.
From 1 October 2026, COVID-19 vaccines moved onto the National Immunisation Program, or NIP, with a yearly schedule for set groups.
Who gets a free COVID-19 vaccine in Point Cook
Under the current NIP schedule, the vaccine is free for:
- all adults aged 75 and over: two doses a year, around six months apart
- adults aged 65 to 74: one dose a year
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 to 74, and adults aged 18 to 64 with severe immunocompromise: one dose a year
You also need to have a Medicare card or be eligible for one. The background to the change is set out in the ATAGI statement on the move to the NIP.
If you are not in a funded group
People outside these groups can still talk to the GP about whether a dose is recommended for them. In that case the vaccine is bought privately with a prescription, and the cost is not covered by the NIP. Pregnant women should discuss timing with their doctor, as advice for pregnancy differs from the general schedule.
What to bring and how to prepare
- your Medicare card
- a list of your medicines, and details of any previous reaction to a vaccine
- the date of your last COVID-19 dose, if you know it
- a short-sleeved or loose top so your upper arm is easy to reach
If you feel unwell or have a fever on the day, call to move your appointment.
On the day
The doctor or nurse checks your health, your last dose and any medical conditions, then gives the vaccine into the muscle of the upper arm. You stay at the clinic for a short observation period afterwards. The dose is added to the Australian Immunisation Register, where you can download an immunisation history statement as proof.
A flu vaccine can be given on the same day, so it makes sense to have both together in autumn. Our flu vaccine page covers who gets that one free.
Side effects
Most side effects are mild and last no more than a couple of days:
- a sore arm
- headache or muscle pain
- fever and chills
- tiredness
Serious side effects are very rare. Call 000 for trouble breathing or swelling of the face or throat after vaccination.
Other vaccines older adults may be due for
If you are 65 or over, the GP may also check your record for the pneumococcal vaccine, the shingles vaccine and the RSV vaccine, and explain which ones you are due for. Bringing all your vaccines up to date in one visit saves extra trips.
Common questions
How do I find out when my last dose was?
Check your immunisation history statement on the Australian Immunisation Register through your Medicare online account, or ask the GP to look it up at your visit.
Do I need an appointment?
Booking is best so the vaccine is ready for you. You can book online or call (03) 7300 7780.
Is there a consultation fee?
Standard consultations are bulk billed for patients with a valid Medicare card. See Patient Info and Fees for how procedures are charged.
I am 75. When is my second dose?
People aged 75 and over can have two free doses a year, given around six months apart. The doctor will check the date of your last dose.
I have had COVID-19 recently. Should I still be vaccinated?
Talk to the GP about timing. They will look at when you were unwell and when your last dose was.
Good to know
Before your appointment
If you are a new patient, please arrive at least five minutes before your consultation and bring:
- Photo ID
- A valid Medicare card
Fees and billing
We offer bulk billing to all patients with a valid Medicare card for standard consultations. All procedures are subject to fees.