Bridget McKenzie (Victoria, National Party, Minister for Regional Communications) Share this | Hansard source

I would like to thank Senator Griff, through you, Mr President, for the question and for the advance notice. Indeed, that was a tragic result of the flu season, and immunisation is critical for maintaining public health and preventing the outbreak of infectious diseases such as the flu. The National Immunisation Program provides a free seasonal influenza vaccine to a range of at-risk cohorts, including those over the age of 65 and pregnant women. Through the NIP, distribution of over 4.6 million doses of seasonal influenza vaccines occurred in 2017, and, as a result of last year's flu season, Minister Hunt tasked the Chief Medical Officer with investigating ways to ensure all aged-care workers are properly vaccinated against seasonal influenza.

The government is also committed to exploring enhanced vaccination program arrangements through the NIP, including making available advanced vaccines for those aged 65 years and over.