Opposition Demands Free Flu Vaccines For All

The Opposition is once again calling on the Minns Labor Government to commit to providing free vaccines to all NSW residents this flu season, amid warnings of a potentially severe outbreak.

2024 was one of the worst flu seasons on record for NSW with over 160,000 reported cases, and data out of Europe and the US showing 2025 could be even worse. Flu cases in NSW are already higher now than they were the same time last year.

At a visit to Galluzzo’s Chemist in Riverwood, where she received the flu vaccine from owner Ben Galluzzo, Shadow Health Minister, Kellie Sloane said, the former Coalition Government successfully provided free flu vaccines in 2022, a program that was not continued by the Minns Government.

“With a monster flu season approaching, we need a vaccination blitz across NSW to save lives and ease the pressure on our already stretched emergency departments.” Ms Sloane said.

“Flu isn’t just a bad cold—it can be deadly. Free vaccines mean fewer hospital visits, fewer sick days, and more lives saved. We need to make it as easy as possible for every NSW resident to get protected this flu season.”

Member for Oatley, Mark Coure said, that in a cost-of-living crisis when vaccination rates are already falling, the Government should be doing more to support families and our health system.

“Communities like mine would welcome free flu vaccinations from the NSW Government, because they know that to keep them and their family safe it is imperative that they get vaccinated. During a cost-of-living crisis, now more than ever, local residents need support to stay safe and healthy.” Mr Coure said.

“Local pharmacies and pharmacists like Ben play a crucial role in keeping our community safe. We must heed their advice and ensure that as many people as possible get vaccinated to protect them from this upcoming flu season.”

ENDS