Flu season in Australia typically peaks between June and September each year, and health authorities recommend getting vaccinated from mid-April onwards to ensure protection before the peak. The 2026 season has seen earlier-than-usual influenza activity, with over 25,000 recorded cases in the first quarter of 2026 alone, driven partly by a new H3N2 variant known as Subclade K that has been spreading faster than typical seasonal strains.
Stanmore Pharmacy offers flu vaccinations for patients aged 2 years and over. Located directly opposite Stanmore Station at Shop 12/140 Percival Road, Stanmore NSW 2048, we provide a convenient option for residents across Stanmore, Newtown, Petersham, Enmore and the wider Inner West. Flu vaccination is one of several pharmacy services we offer.
What has changed with the 2026 flu vaccine?
There are several updates to the flu vaccines available in Australia this year.
Trivalent formulation. All flu vaccines in Australia for 2026 are trivalent, meaning they protect against two influenza A strains and one influenza B strain. In previous years, vaccines were quadrivalent (four strains). The World Health Organisation recommended removing the B/Yamagata lineage because it has not been detected in the community since 2020.
Updated strains. The 2026 vaccines include two new influenza A strains to address the variants currently circulating, including the H3N2 Subclade K variant that has been reported at higher levels earlier in the season.
FluMist nasal spray vaccine. A needle-free nasal spray flu vaccine called FluMist is available in Australia for the first time in 2026. FluMist is approved for children and adolescents aged 2 to 17 years. In New South Wales, the government is funding FluMist for children aged 2 to under 5 years through a state program. For children aged 5 to 17, FluMist is available on the private market.
Who can get a free flu vaccine?
The following groups are eligible for a free flu vaccine under the National Immunisation Program (NIP):
Children aged 6 months to under 5 years. All children in this age group are eligible for a free flu vaccine. Children under 2 years of age will need to visit their GP, as pharmacy vaccination for influenza in NSW is available from age 2.
Adults aged 65 years and over. All adults in this age group are eligible for free enhanced flu vaccines, which are specifically formulated to provide stronger protection for older Australians.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over. Annual flu vaccination is funded under the NIP for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.
Pregnant women. Flu vaccination is recommended and funded at any stage of pregnancy.
People with certain medical conditions. Australians aged 6 months and over who have conditions such as severe asthma, heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease or weakened immune systems are eligible for a free vaccine. Your pharmacist or GP can confirm whether your condition qualifies.
If you are not in one of these groups, flu vaccines are available at a private cost. Contact Stanmore Pharmacy on (02) 9550 0906 for current pricing and availability.
When should you get vaccinated?
Health authorities recommend getting your flu vaccination from mid-April through to mid-June. It takes approximately two weeks after vaccination for the body to develop full protection.
In Australia, flu season typically peaks between June and September, so vaccinating in April or May provides the best window of protection through the peak months. However, it is never too late to get vaccinated, as influenza can circulate at any time of year.
How to book a flu vaccination at Stanmore Pharmacy
There are three ways to book:
Book online. Visit our vaccination booking page to select your preferred appointment time.
Call us. Phone (02) 9550 0906 and our team will arrange an appointment for you.
Walk in. Walk-ins are welcome during opening hours, subject to pharmacist availability.
Our pharmacists administer all vaccinations in a comfortable, private setting. Appointments typically take around 15 minutes, including a brief health screening. After vaccination, patients are asked to remain in the pharmacy for 15 minutes for observation. All vaccinations are reported to the Australian Immunisation Register.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 8am to 6:30pm Saturday and Sunday: 9am to 2pm
Frequently asked questions
How much does a flu vaccination cost at Stanmore Pharmacy? Flu vaccinations are free for eligible groups under the National Immunisation Program. For those not covered, vaccines are available at a private cost. Please call (02) 9550 0906 for current pricing.
What is the minimum age for flu vaccination at a pharmacy in NSW? In New South Wales, pharmacists are authorised to administer influenza vaccines to patients aged 2 years and over. Children under 2 years of age should visit their GP.
Do I need an appointment? Appointments are recommended to secure your preferred time, but walk-ins are welcome when availability permits.
Can I get the flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine at the same time? Yes. The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) advises that flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be administered at the same time or at any interval apart. Speak to our pharmacist for advice specific to your situation.
I had the flu vaccine last year. Do I still need one this year? Yes. The flu vaccine is updated each year to match the strains expected to circulate that season. Annual vaccination is recommended regardless of previous vaccination history.
Is the FluMist nasal spray available at Stanmore Pharmacy? FluMist is a needle-free nasal spray vaccine approved for children and adolescents aged 2 to 17 years. Contact us on (02) 9550 0906 for availability and pricing.
What side effects can I expect? Common side effects may include localised pain, redness or swelling at the injection site, mild headache, tiredness or muscle aches. These typically resolve within one to two days. If you have concerns after vaccination, speak to your pharmacist or GP.
Stanmore Pharmacy is located at Shop 12/140 Percival Road, Stanmore NSW 2048, directly opposite Stanmore Station. For more information or to book a flu vaccination, call (02) 9550 0906 or visit our vaccination booking page.
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. For personalised advice about vaccinations, speak with your pharmacist or GP. Information is current as of April 2026 and is based on guidance from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI), NSW Health and the Australian Government Department of Health.