The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has expressed strong support for the Western Australian Department of Health’s 2026 Winter Strategy. This initiative is seen as a significant step forward in reducing preventable illnesses and alleviating the strain on the state’s healthcare system during the challenging winter months.
Dr. Ramya Raman, Chair of RACGP WA, highlighted the importance of the expanded vaccination programs included in the strategy. These programs are designed to protect communities, particularly children and working-age adults who are often under-vaccinated. “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 Access to Influenza Vaccines
The 2026 Winter Strategy includes funding for free influenza vaccines for individuals aged 12 to 64 who are not covered under the National Immunisation Program. This initiative will run from May 1 to June 30, 2026, and aims to support general practitioners (GPs) and other healthcare providers with grants to increase vaccination delivery.
Dr. Raman emphasized the benefits of removing financial barriers to vaccination. “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,” she said.
Centralized Vaccine Procurement and Nasal Spray Program
The RACGP also commended the Department’s decision to centrally procure all vaccine stock required for the program. “Central procurement avoids duplication, reduces waste, and ensures a more efficient, coordinated rollout for practices across the state,” Dr. Raman noted.
Another key component of the strategy is the 2026 WA Influenza Nasal Spray Vaccination Program, which offers free FluMist intranasal vaccines to children aged 2 to 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.
Ensuring Equitable Distribution and General Practice Support
The College praised the Department’s plan for equitable pre-allocation of FluMist doses, acknowledging the challenges posed by the vaccine’s 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,” Dr. Raman said.
RACGP emphasized the critical role of general practice in the vaccination delivery process. “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 added.
Looking Ahead: Collaborative Efforts for a Healthier Winter
The College reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the WA Government, the Department of Health, and immunization providers to ensure a smooth rollout of the Winter 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,” Dr. Raman concluded.
As Western Australia prepares for the upcoming winter season, the 2026 Winter Strategy represents a proactive approach to public health, focusing on prevention and collaboration to safeguard the community’s well-being.
