COVID-19 vaccination for children aged 5 - 11 years old
COVID-19 vaccine appointments are available for children aged 5 – 11 from January 2022.
About vaccination for children
Vaccination against COVID-19 is now recommended for children aged 5 – 11 years.
The Department of Education also strongly recommends ahead of the 2022 school year that all eligible students (and their families) who are 5 years and older get vaccinated.
Evidence shows vaccination offers excellent protection against COVID-19 in children. Even though COVID-19 in children is often milder than in adults, there’s strong evidence to support vaccinating children.
Vaccines give the immune system a helping hand to protect against serious illness and possible long-term effects from COVID-19. Vaccination also helps to protect friends, family and the community by reducing spread of the virus.
The Pfizer (Comirnaty) children’s vaccine is the approved COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 5 – 11 years in Australia. The dose is around 1/3 of the dose for people aged 12 years and older.
Children will receive two doses of the vaccine, given 8 weeks apart. In certain circumstances, the second dose can be brought forward to 3 weeks after the first dose, including:
- in an outbreak response
- prior to the initiation of significant immunosuppression
- before international travel.
Parents are encouraged to book a vaccination appointment for their child as soon as possible. Talk to your GP if you have any questions or concerns about COVID-19 vaccination for your child.
Who is eligible?
All children aged 5 – 11 are eligible for vaccination.
Some children have an increased risk from COVID-19. This includes:
- children aged 5-11 years with underlying conditions
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children
- children living in crowded conditions or outbreak areas.
Children aged 5-11 years who have previously had COVID-19 can receive the vaccine once they have recovered from their illness.
Consent
For people aged 5 – 11, consent is required from a parent or guardian at booking and at the appointment.
If the parent or guardian is unable to attend the appointment, a nominated accompanying adult can be identified during the booking process.
See the Consent for COVID-19 Vaccination for further information.
Book an appointment
Find a location near you on the Vaccine Clinic Finder.
Accessible clinics are available. Clinic accessibility features may include wheelchair access, low sensory pathways, AUSLAN interpreters, fast track access and other support.
More information
ATAGI recommendations on Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine use in children aged 5 to 11 years.
Know the facts: COVID-19 vaccination for children factsheet
Translated factsheets – COVID-19 vaccination for children (49 languages)
Frequently asked questions: COVID-19 and children (NCIRS)
Read the COVID-19 advice for parents, students and children
Support
- NSW Health Vaccination Support Line 1800 57 11 55
- Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) 131 450