Australian children will have stronger protection against pneumococcal disease with the Federal Government implementing a new and improved vaccine on the National Immunisation Program (NIP).
Prevenar 20 is available from 1 September 2025 nationwide through the NIP.
Pneumococcal disease, a bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria, is especially serious for young children and older people. It can cause pneumonia, bloodstream infection and meningitis.
It can also lead to ear infections, specifically otitis media and is one of the most common causes of middle ear infections in young children.
Prevenar 20 replaces two pneumococcal vaccines formerly on the NIP for children, Prevenar 13 and Pneumovax 23.
Prevenar 20 protects against more strains of the disease and will be given as a three-dose schedule for most children, and a four-dose schedule for First Nations children, regardless of where they live.
The vaccine is expected to immunise more than 260,000 children across Australia each year. Without listing it on the NIP, it would cost parents more than $300 each.
Mr Mark Butler, Minister for Health and Ageing and Minister for Disability and the NDIS, released details in a media release on 2 September 2025.
“Thanks to the Albanese Government, children will have free access to the best and most comprehensive protection against pneumococcal,” he said.
“Prevenar 20 is a shield against pneumococcal disease, and our government is proud to make it freely available to Australian families.
“By simplifying the schedule and introducing a more effective vaccine, we’re making it easier for parents and health professionals to keep kids safe.
“This change reflects the expert advice of ATAGI (the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation) and our commitment to ensuring the National Immunisation Program delivers the best outcomes for children.”
