The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) has applauded the Tasmanian Government’s announcement of $4 million investment for free vaccination against meningococcal B following long-term advocacy by the RACGP.
Free MenB vaccinations, including catch-up vaccination, will be available from July 2026 as part of the 2026–27 Budget.
The Department of Health reports there have been at least two cases of meningococcal disease in Tasmania this year.
RACGP Tasmania Chair Dr Toby Gardner praised the Government for listening to GPs and noted the move fulfills an election commitment by the Tasmanian Liberals during their successful 2025 state election campaign.
“It's great to see this support for families, and we commend the Tasmanian Government and Health Minister for delivering on their commitment to improve access to care for Tasmanians,” he said.
“This is a serious infection – it causes deaths in 5–10% of cases, and lifelong disability in up to 20% of cases.
“It’s rare, but serious meningococcal disease can happen scarily fast. Otherwise young and healthy young people have gone from healthy, to unwell, to deadly sepsis within a day.
“We can’t predict where it’ll strike, but we can reduce the risk of serious harm.
“Since the MenACWY vaccine was made free for babies and teens, over 80% of cases have been due to the strain missing from that vaccine, the B strain.
“A vaccine for the B strain has been available, but at around $140 a dose, it hasn’t been affordable or accessible.
“The highest-risk group for meningococcal B in Tasmania are babies under two, and it remains a significant concern for families sending their kids into care.
“Making MenB vaccination free as part of the budget tackles that missing part of our kids’ immunity, and it’s one we’ve been calling for as GPs.
“This will save lives and prevent permanent disability in children and young people.”