The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has expressed strong support for the Western Australia Department of Health’s 2026 Winter Strategy. This initiative is seen as a crucial investment aimed at mitigating preventable illnesses and alleviating the strain on the state’s healthcare system during the peak winter months.
RACGP WA Chair, Dr. Ramya Raman, highlighted the significance of expanded vaccination programs under the strategy, particularly in safeguarding communities, with a focus on children and working-age adults who often receive insufficient vaccinations. “Winter places enormous strain on our health system, and these proactive measures will make a meaningful difference. Free access to influenza vaccination for more Western Australians will reduce severe illness, keep people well, and help prevent avoidable hospitalisations,” Dr. Raman stated.
Expanded Vaccination Programs
The strategy includes funding for free influenza vaccines for individuals aged 12–64 who do not qualify under the National Immunisation Program. This initiative will run from May 1 to June 30, 2026, and will be supported by grants to assist general practitioners (GPs) and other healthcare providers in delivering additional vaccinations.
“This program has proven benefits. Removing cost barriers helps ensure more people are protected, particularly working families and younger adults who may otherwise delay vaccination. It’s a smart, equitable investment in public health,” Dr. Raman emphasized.
Centralized Vaccine Procurement
The RACGP also praised the Department’s decision to procure all vaccine stock required for the program centrally. “Central procurement avoids duplication, reduces waste, and ensures a more efficient, coordinated rollout for practices across the state,” Dr. Raman noted.
Innovative Approaches to Child Vaccination
In a move to enhance vaccination rates among young children, the 2026 WA Influenza Nasal Spray Vaccination Program will offer free FluMist intranasal vaccines to children aged 2–11 from mid-April to July 31, 2026. “Making an intranasal option available is a valuable addition, particularly for young children who are anxious about needles. It removes a barrier to vaccination, helps improve uptake, and supports families during the busy winter period,” Dr. Raman explained.
The College acknowledged the Department’s plan for equitable pre-allocation of FluMist doses, given its short shelf life. “We appreciate the Department’s careful planning to ensure doses reach providers statewide without unnecessary wastage. This is exactly the kind of thoughtful, collaborative approach we want to see.”
The Role of General Practice
The RACGP reiterated that general practice remains the cornerstone of vaccination delivery. “GPs and practice nurses know their patients, understand their medical history, and are best placed to provide safe, holistic vaccine advice. These programs will only reach their full potential with strong support for general practice and recognition of the essential role we play,” Dr. Raman asserted.
Looking ahead, the College reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the WA Government, the Department of Health, and immunisation providers to ensure a seamless rollout of the strategy. “This Winter Strategy is a positive step that puts prevention at the centre of public health planning. We look forward to partnering with government to ensure every eligible Western Australian can access timely, safe and effective vaccination this winter.”
The announcement comes as healthcare systems globally continue to grapple with the pressures of seasonal illnesses, highlighting the importance of proactive measures in public health. The RACGP’s endorsement of the 2026 Winter Strategy underscores a collaborative approach to health management, aiming to set a precedent for future public health initiatives.
