By Taylah Eastwell
All Victorians over 16 are now eligible to access the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine.
The state government announced appointments would open up from 7 am on Wednesday 25 August to those aged between 16-59 in hopes of helping the state reach its goal of one million doses over five weeks.
Anyone aged 18 to 59 can now receive either Pfizer or AstraZeneca, while those aged 16 and 17 are eligible for Pfizer only. Those in their sixties are only able to receive AstraZeneca.
According to the state government, 830,000 appointments for Covid-19 vaccines will be made available over the next four weeks, including 450,000 first dose appointments for the Pfizer vaccine.
With the age group now expanded, more than two million Victorians are now eligible to be vaccinated.
Approximately 1.7 million Victorians aged 16 to 59 have already been vaccinated across general practice, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, community pharmacy and state vaccination centres.
The expansion follows the supply of an additional 175,000 doses of Pfizer from the Commonwealth, recently received from Poland.
Anyone aged 18 to 39 who has a current booking for AstraZeneca from Wednesday 25 August who would prefer to receive Pfizer, will not need to cancel or change their booking – you will be offered Pfizer when you arrive for your appointment, unless you would prefer to receive AstraZeneca.
However, with the number of Victorians aged 18 to 59 still far outweighing the Pfizer doses available from the Commonwealth, the AstraZeneca vaccine will still be available for those who choose to provide consent and discuss their vaccination with a medical professional.
The state-run centres include three new drive-through vaccination sites, at the Former Ford Factory in Broadmeadows, at Sandown Racecourse in Springvale and at the Eagle Stadium in Werribee.
The new sites join the Melton drive-through clinic at the former Bunnings warehouse site, which saw 1,200 doses delivered in its first week of operation.
It’s important to remember Victorians can also book to get vaccinated with their local GP or selected pharmacists across the state.
Victorians are required to book their vaccination appointment by visiting coronavirus.vic.gov.au or by phoning the Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398.
Visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au/vaccination-centres for more information on Victoria’s vaccination centres, including locations and opening hours.
Premier Daniel Andrews said delivering 230,000 doses so far was a “mammoth effort”.
“But please, if you haven’t had your vaccination yet, just book it in today to protect yourself and your loved ones.”
Minister for Health Martin Foley said getting vaccinated is our way out of this pandemic.
“This outbreak has reminded us yet again that this virus doesn’t discriminate, not by age or profession. Now is the time to come forward and protect yourself and those you love.”
