Covid-19 booster jabs: everything you need to know

The Omicron strain of Covid-19 has seen case numbers surge throughout Australia, making booster shots a key part of our defence against the virus.

More than 95 per cent of Australians aged 12 and older have received a full schedule of their vaccination against coronavirus.

But as we enter our third year of the Covid-19 pandemic, scientists say booster shots of the vaccine are needed to maximise our defence against the disease – especially with the presence of Omicron.

“Effectiveness of two doses against symptomatic infection drops precipitously against Omicron compared to Delta, and effectiveness also drops against severe disease from over 90 per cent for Delta to about 78-80 per cent for Omicron,” University of New South Wales Professor of Global Biosecurity Raina MacIntyre says.

“A booster drives effectiveness right up again.”

Research has also shown that while Omicron is more resistant to vaccines compared with Delta, booster doses of mRNA vaccines improve neutralisation of the disease.

• Covid-19 vaccines: Your burning questions answered

Who can receive a booster dose?

The Therapeutic Goods Administration, backed by the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation, have now approved Covid-19 booster shots for Australians aged 16 years and older.

You can book a booster dose from three months after your second dose.

People aged 16-17 will receive a Pfizer booster, while those aged 18 and over will receive either a Pfizer or Moderna, regardless of whether their first doses were AstraZeneca, Pfizer or Moderna.

Some research suggests taking a booster that is different to your original vaccine may improve your antibody response.

People aged 12 and over with severely compromised immune systems can receive a third jab and can get it from any venues already participating in the vaccine rollout.

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Do I need a booster if I’ve had a Covid-19 infection?

A booster shot is still recommended even if you’ve been infected with Covid-19.

ATAGI recommends booking your booster once your infection is over.

Are boosters mandatory?

Depending on which state or territory you live and your type of work, it may be mandatory to receive a third dose of vaccine to be permitted to work on site.

Check your state or territory government information site for relevant details.

• ACT
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• Queensland
• South Australia
• Tasmania
• Victoria
• Western Australia

How do I book my Covid-19 booster shot?

You will be able to book your appointment by checking the date of your second dose on your vaccination certificate and making a booking three months after that date, according to the Department of Health.

The Australian Government clinic finder will be updated to support people making bookings for boosters.

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How long does the Covid-19 booster last?

According to the Australian government, it is not yet known how long Covid-19 vaccine protection will last, or how regularly booster doses will be required.

ATAGI has recommended fourth doses of vaccine for people who’re severely immunocompromised.

Prof Skerritt summed this up the best when he said “no-one knows about the duration of protection post this booster”.

Clinical trials are continuing.

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Written by Liz McGrath and Claire Burke. 

Updated February 4, 2022.