Pneumococcal disease can cause serious illness, especially in older adults. New changes to the vaccine make it easier to stay protected. If you are 65 years or over, you may be eligible for a free dose.
Pneumococcal disease is a bacterial infection that can affect different parts of the body. It can lead to serious illnesses such as:
- pneumonia (lung infection)
- bloodstream infection
- meningitis (brain infection).
While many infections are mild, pneumococcal disease can become severe and even life-threatening.
Adult pneumococcal vaccination
Pneumococcal vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect yourself from pneumococcal disease.
The pneumococcal vaccine is recommended and free under the National Immunisation Program for:
- adults 65 years and over
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults 25 years and over
- adults 18 years and over with certain medical conditions that increase their risk.
If you identify with one of the high-risk groups above, a single dose of the new vaccine is recommended to help protect you from serious illness.
Pneumococcal vaccine may be given on the same day as other vaccines. This can include shingles, influenza and COVID-19 vaccines.
2026 vaccine updates
In July 2026, the pneumococcal vaccination was updated under the National Immunisation Program.
The vaccine protects against more strains of pneumococcal disease. A new pneumococcal vaccine (Capvaxive®) is now used for adults. This replaces previous vaccines used for adults (Prevenar 13® and Pneumovax 23®).
The vaccination schedule is now simpler, with a single dose recommended for most people.
If you have already received the pneumococcal vaccine, healthcare professionals may still recommend you receive the new vaccine. Typically, the new vaccine will be administered at least 12 months after your last pneumococcal vaccination.
Book your vaccination
Vaccination appointments can be booked at a range of:
- general practices
- Aboriginal health services
- local council immunisation services
- participating pharmacies.
While the vaccine is free for eligible people, a consultation fee may apply. Speak with your vaccination provider for more information.
More information
Keeping up to date with recommended vaccines helps protect your health and the people around you. Some recommended vaccines are flu, RSV, COVID-19 and pneumococcal.
If you are unsure about your vaccination status, talk to your GP or immunisation provider.
For more information, visit the Better Health Channel Pneumococcal disease immunisation web .
Reviewed 27 August 2026