RACGP welcomes WA Government investment to boost flu vaccination ahead of winter peak

The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) has welcomed the Western Australian Government’s $1 million investment to expand influenza vaccination activities across the state ahead of the winter peak. 

The funding will support more than 500 participating GP practices and Aboriginal Medical Services to deliver additional flu vaccination clinics and proactively contact patients who may be overdue for vaccination.  

The initiative is designed to improve access to vaccines and protect those most at risk of severe illness, including older adults, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, pregnant women, young children, and people with chronic health conditions. 

The investment follows the launch of the WA Government’s 2026 Free Influenza Vaccine Program and Be Wise, Immunise campaign, which aim to increase vaccination rates during May and June. It also forms part of broader winter preparedness measures to reduce the impact of seasonal illness and ease pressure on hospitals and emergency departments. 

RACGP WA Chair Dr Ramya Raman said the announcement is a win for communities during the winter months. 

“The RACGP welcomes the Western Australian Government’s practice grants to support flu clinics this winter. We have long advocated for targeted funding to support practices delivering flu vaccinations, and this investment will help ensure communities can access vaccinations during peak demand,” she said. 

“General practice plays a central role in preventive health and vaccination delivery. Supporting practices to run flu clinics protects patients, eases pressure on hospitals, and strengthens Western Australia’s public health response. 

“GPs and their teams are ready to step up, as they do every year, to help keep their communities safe. Initiatives like this recognise the critical role general practice plays on the frontline of healthcare and will make a meaningful difference during the winter season. 

“We encourage all eligible Western Australians to take up the opportunity to get their flu vaccine as soon as possible.”