Pharmacists urge national rollout of free, needle-free flu vaccines for kids

The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has welcomed the leadership of Queensland and New South Wales in introducing free, needle-free influenza vaccines for children aged two to under five years and is calling on all states and territories to urgently follow their lead.

PSA National President, Associate Professor Fei Sim FPS, said vaccination coverage among young children remains unacceptably low, with uptake in some jurisdictions below 20 per cent.

“We congratulate the Queensland and New South Wales governments for showing leadership and putting children’s health first,” Associate Professor Sim said.

“Too many children are missing out on flu vaccination, and parents consistently tell us that the fear of needles is a barrier. A nasal spray option changes that, and we know from overseas experience that uptake of vaccines improves dramatically.

“Pharmacists are ready to deliver these vaccines in every community — but we need every government to come on board.”

Influenza is one of the most common reasons children present to emergency departments during winter, placing significant strain on hospitals and families.

“South Australia has shown that when you remove unnecessary legislative impediments, you unlock the full potential of pharmacists to deliver safe and accessible care,” Associate Professor Sim said.

“It’s time for all jurisdictions to modernise legislation so every child, no matter their postcode, can access free, convenient, and needle-free protection.”

PSA Vaccination Ambassador and Melbourne pharmacist Anna Theophilos MPS said needle-free vaccines would make a real difference for families.

“Parents often worry about the stress of needles for young children, especially those with sensory needs. A nasal spray takes away that anxiety and makes it easier for families to protect their kids. Pharmacists are embedded in every community and ready to deliver.”

Associate Professor Sim added that while state programs are essential now, long-term equity requires national leadership and harmonisation across jurisdictions. 

“We note that FluMist is currently being considered by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee for the National Immunisation Program. Federal funding will be critical for national consistency — but until then, states and territories must step up to protect children against this vaccine-preventable disease.” Associate Professor Sim concluded. 

Supporting pharmacists 
To further support the profession in implementing intranasal influenza vaccination, PSA will deliver a dedicated webinar, a quick reference guide, and learning module launching October 2025. These resources will equip pharmacists with practical guidance and clinical confidence to integrate needle-free vaccination into practice.