Written by the Priceline Pharmacy Pacific Fair team. Reviewed by Jason Markey, BPharmSci, MPharm, Owner and Pharmacist.
General health information from a registered pharmacist. It doesn’t replace advice from your own pharmacist or doctor.
The best time to get your flu shot in Queensland is in autumn, before flu season peaks. Flu usually peaks between June and September in most parts of Australia, and the Australian Government advises getting vaccinated any time from April onwards. That way, you’re protected when flu is at its busiest.
Below, we answer the flu shot questions we hear most at the counter. You can also find details of our walk-in service on our vaccinations at Pacific Fair page.
Your flu shot questions answered
When is flu season in Queensland?
Flu circulation usually peaks between June and September in most parts of Australia, but flu can turn up at any time of year. On the Gold Coast we see plenty of visitors from interstate and overseas, especially over the Easter and winter school holidays. So there are lots of chances for viruses to spread at theme parks, airports and busy shopping centres.
So when should I get my flu shot?
The Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing advises getting your annual flu vaccine any time from April onwards, so you’re protected for the peak season. New-season vaccines under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) are expected to be available from April, although timing can vary by area.
The Australian Immunisation Handbook recommends getting vaccinated before flu season starts. Protection is expected to last the whole season, and it’s strongest in the first 3 to 4 months after vaccination. That’s why autumn is the sweet spot.
If you’ve missed that window, it’s never too late. Flu can circulate all year round, so a flu shot in winter or spring is still worthwhile.
Do I need a flu shot every year?
Yes. Yearly flu vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and over. Flu viruses change, and each year’s vaccine is updated to cover the strains expected to be most common.
Is the flu vaccine free?
Free under the National Immunisation Program
In 2026, the flu vaccine was free under the NIP for these groups. The list is reviewed each year, so ask us about eligibility for the current season:
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over
- children aged 6 months to under 5 years
- pregnant women, at any stage of pregnancy
- people aged 65 and over
- people aged 6 months and over with certain medical conditions that increase their risk of serious illness, such as heart disease, chronic lung conditions, diabetes and other metabolic conditions, kidney disease, some neurological conditions, or a weakened immune system
Your pharmacist or GP can tell you whether a medical condition makes you eligible.
Queensland’s free flu vaccination program
In 2026, the Queensland Government offered free flu vaccines to all Queenslanders aged 6 months and older from 1 March to 30 September, and you didn’t need a Medicare card. Queensland’s program is decided year by year, so ask us whether it’s running in the coming season and what the dates are.
If you’re not eligible for a free vaccine, you can pay for one at a pharmacy or GP. Some providers charge a service fee even when the vaccine is free, so ask us about our current price.
Can I just walk in at Pacific Fair?
Yes. Our pharmacists offer walk-in flu vaccinations, with no appointment needed. Ask us about age limits if you’re bringing children. It’s easy to add to a shopping trip, and we’re open until 9pm on Thursdays if you can’t get away during the day.
Younger children, or anyone who’d prefer to see a doctor, can also be vaccinated by Help Medical GPs inside our store.
My child is getting a flu shot for the first time. Is it different?
It can be. Children under 2 having their first flu vaccine need 2 doses, 1 month apart. Children under 9 with certain medical conditions having their first flu vaccine also need 2 doses, 1 month apart. Your pharmacist or GP will let you know.
What to expect when you get your flu shot
- A few quick questions. We’ll ask about your health, allergies, any past reactions to vaccines, if you’re pregnant, and if you’re unwell today.
- The vaccine. It’s a needle, usually in the upper arm. Short sleeves or a loose top make it easier.
- A short wait. You’ll be asked to stay nearby for at least 15 minutes, so we can help quickly if you have a rare allergic reaction. Please don’t drive during that time.
- Your record. Your vaccination is recorded, so it shows up on your immunisation history.
Can I have it with other vaccines?
Yes. The flu vaccine can be given on the same day as a COVID-19 vaccine. If you’ve recently had COVID-19, you can have your flu vaccine once you feel well and don’t have a fever.
I have an egg allergy. Can I have the flu vaccine?
Yes. The egg-based flu vaccines contain only tiny traces of egg protein. People with an egg allergy, including those who have had anaphylaxis, can safely have a flu vaccine. Let the pharmacist know so they can talk it through with you.
I’m travelling overseas later in the year. Do I need anything else?
If you’re heading to the Northern Hemisphere during its flu season (usually October to May), you may be able to have a second flu vaccine before you go. See our travel health page and chat with a pharmacist before you fly.
What are the side effects of the flu vaccine?
Most reactions are mild and only last a couple of days. Common side effects include:
- pain, redness and swelling where the needle went in
- occasionally a small lump at the injection site, which can last for weeks and doesn’t need treatment
- tiredness or drowsiness
- muscle aches
- mild fever
When not to get vaccinated, and when to talk to a doctor
You should not have the flu vaccine if you’ve had anaphylaxis after a previous flu vaccine, or after any ingredient in a flu vaccine. Talk to your GP about other options.
Talk to your pharmacist or GP before your flu shot if you:
- are unwell with a fever on the day, as you may be asked to come back when you’re better
- have had a reaction to a vaccine before
- have a weakened immune system or a complex medical condition
- aren’t sure which vaccine is right for your age
When to see a pharmacist or GP
See your pharmacist or GP if side effects after your flu shot worry you or don’t settle within a few days. If you get flu symptoms and you’re in a higher-risk group, such as being pregnant, over 65 or living with a chronic condition, see your GP early.
Call 000 if you or someone else has trouble breathing, chest pain, or signs of a severe allergic reaction after a vaccine.
Sources
This article is general information only and isn’t a substitute for personal advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist or you’re worried, talk to your pharmacist or GP. In an emergency, call 000.
Talk to our pharmacists at Pacific Fair
Pop in, no appointment needed. We’re on the ground floor of Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Broadbeach, open 7 days and until 9pm on Thursdays.