As of Monday 2 August, state-run vaccination centres such as Sandown Racecourse and Cranbourne Turf Club will administer the second dose of Pfizer vaccine at least six weeks after the first dose.Â
A six week minimum interval means more Victorians can receive their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine, providing protection against hospitalisation and severe disease.
This change is consistent with the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation Clinical Guidelines.
Pfizer intervals of varying lengths have been used in a range of countries including the United Kingdom. Real world efficacy estimates from these settings have confirmed that two doses of Pfizer provides strong protection against infection, severe disease and hospitalisation.
This change only applies to Victorian vaccination centres, including efforts by Local Public Health Unit high-volume centres and state commissioned community health services delivering COVID-19 vaccination.
Commonwealth commissioned services including general practices (GPs) and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations services are not required to extend the minimum interval between doses and may continue to administer the second dose at the three week interval.
Existing appointments
People who already have their second Pfizer dose appointment booked, can attend their appointment as planned.  Appointments do not need to be rescheduled even if they are booked at the three week interval.
Even if the second dose of Pfizer is administered later than the recommended interval, no further doses are required.
The following people will continue to be provided second doses at a three-week interval:
- hotel quarantine and border workers
- frontline healthcare workers that work at COVID streaming hospitals that are required to be fully vaccinated (workers should book directly with the relevant vaccination service at a health service/hospital)
- correctional facilities clients/workers being served by in-reach vaccination service providers.
How to book
We encourage anyone who is eligible to get vaccinated against COVID-19.
You can book via the Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398 or via the online portal.
Check your eligibility
Unsure of your eligibility? You can check your eligibility against the national rollout plan and book an appointment by using the eligibility checker.