Is there a special programme for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people?

Yes. The National Immunisation Program (NIP) includes additional vaccination for infants of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. In addition, the pneumococcal disease vaccine is available for those in the 15-49 year age group with medical risk factors, or all those over 50 years of age. 

The annual vaccine for influenza is available for all those over 15 years of age. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be vaccinated against hepatitis B if they have not been vaccinated before and are not already immune to the virus. Residents of the Torres Strait Islands can also be vaccinated against japanese encephalitis. And, non-pregnant women of child-bearing age should be vaccinated against rubella, using the combined measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine.