Speaking at a press conference this morning, Premier Daniel Andrews announced an expansion of Victoria’s coronavirus vaccination program. From tomorrow, August 9, people aged 18 to 39 will be able to receive the Astra Zeneca vaccine at a state-run vaccination hub, where before they had to get it at a GP clinic.

At present there are 50 state-run vaccination sites across Victoria. Nine of those will open to the new age bracket. People keen to get the jab can book online, through the Service Victoria app, or call the coronavirus hotline on 1800 675 398.

The sites are as follows:
• Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton
• Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Wharf
• Melbourne Showgrounds, Flemington
• Sandown Racecourse, Springvale
• Bayside Shopping Centre, Frankston
• Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre, South Morang
• Former Ford Factory, Geelong
• Kilmore District Health (Outpatients Building), Kilmore
• Mansfield District Hospital (Anderson Hall), Mansfield

We think you might like Access. For $12 a month, join our membership program to stay in the know.

SIGN UP

“I would fully anticipate those nine sites will be busy, as all of our state sites have been, right throughout this vaccine program,” Andrews said.

“There’s a lot written and a lot said about people being hesitant to get the jab. That’s not what I’m picking up on, I think there are many millions of Victorians that want to get vaccinated. They want to get vaccinated quickly, because they know it’s good for them, for their family and for every family.”

The Astra Zeneca vaccine will still be available to 18- to 39-year-olds at participating GPs, respiratory clinics and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations.

The premier stressed that there is “no supply issue” with the Astra Zeneca vaccine, which the state has 200,000 doses of, and that nobody should have trouble getting an appointment.

Upon arrival each patient will have a one-on-one consultation with a GP, who will outline the process and potential risks. Once each patient has given informed consent, they will receive their first jab, with the second following 12 weeks later.

“There is significant protection from infection, and therefore from transmission and ill health, from a single shot,” Andrews said.

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation advises that two doses of Astra Zeneca reduce the risk of symptomatic infection by at least 67 per cent, and the risk of hospitalisation by 92 per cent.

City of Melbourne Lord Mayor Sally Capp also made a vaccine-related announcement today: from August 16 her council will launch a vaccination incentive program, with daily prizes drawn from a pool worth $100,000. Winners will receive vouchers for shopping and other experiences in the CBD.

“I want Melbourne to be the most vaccinated city in Australia, because it’s the only pathway to confidence,” Capp said.

If you have concerns about visiting businesses or public spaces, or questions about self-isolation, vaccination or coronavirus testing, check out the latest updates from the Department of Health and Human Services.