Eligible Victorians who have not had a COVID vaccination or confirmed infection in the past six months can now receive their 2023 booster. This is irrespective of how many prior doses a person has received. Vaccination continues to provide the best protection against becoming severely unwell or dying from COVID.
2023 boosters
Eligible Victorians who have not had a COVID vaccination or confirmed infection in the past six months can now receive their 2023 booster. This is irrespective of how many prior doses a person has received. Vaccination continues to provide the best protection against becoming severely unwell or dying from COVID.
For those not infected or vaccinated in the past six months, a 2023 booster is recommended for:
- All adults aged 65 years and over
- Adults 18-64 years who have medical comorbidities or disability with significant or complex health needs.
For those not infected or vaccinated in the past six months, a 2023 booster should be considered for:
- Adults 18-64 with no risk factors for severe COVID
- Children and adolescents aged 5-17 who have medical comorbidities or disability with significant or complex health needs.
Victorians are encouraged to book a free booster appointment through their local GP or pharmacy. You can find your nearest vaccination provider through the Health Direct Service Finder.
RATs available through local councils
All Victorians are eligible to pick up two free packets of rapid antigen tests (RATs) through their local council.
The council RAT distribution program is currently operating across more than 400 local sites, such as libraries and council customer service centres. The program is open to all Victorians, with all eligibility requirements now removed.
Individuals can collect up to two packets for themselves plus up to two packets for each household member per visit, while people with a disability or their carer can collect up to four packets of tests.
RAT Packets are available at Ethnic Council of Shepparton and Shepparton Library.
Testing, especially with any compatible COVID symptoms, is critical to help with early detection and to protect others. It also allows for appropriate care and timely treatment.
Contact details for participating councils can be found at the Coronavirus website.
Antivirals and other medicines
Oral antiviral medications remain highly effective against all currently circulating COVID subvariants to reduce severe disease and prevent death.
From 1 July, people aged 50-69 with one additional risk factor for developing severe disease are eligible for antiviral treatments.
To access these medications, you need a prescription from an authorised prescriber, such as a medical practitioner or nurse practitioner. You do not need to register your RAT result to get a prescription.
Early testing for COVID and diagnosis are essential to access COVID medicines. For most COVID medicines to work best, you must take it within five days of getting sick – the earlier the better.
Information on eligibility can be found at the Coronavirus website.
