How to get a free flu shot in your state or territory

As a particularly virulent and nasty influenza strain tears through the country, states have made flu shots free for everyone who wants one.

Victoria has just become the latest state where people can get a free jab.

So what do you need to know to get a free flu shot, state-by-state.

Influenza A is a particularly nasty virus spreading around Australia.

Victoria

Free flu shots will be available for the month of June in Victoria.

"We have seen cases rise really rapidly," Health Minister Martin Foley said.

More than 3000 GP clinics and pharmacies will have the option to offer the government-funded vaccines.

Anyone older than five can get a free flu shot at pharmacies around the state.

Free shots are also available at local GPs.

Flu shots are available for almost everyone almost everywhere in the country in June.

The vaccines will be available at state-run clinics as well as participating pharmacies and GPs.

The WA government said anybody older than five can simply walk in to get a shot at a state-run clinic.

For a free shot at a pharmacy or GP, people will need to book ahead.

Queenslanders have been able to get a free flu shot since last week.

The jabs will be free at local pharmacies and GP surgeries until June 20.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk described the rollout as a "preemptive strike" against influenza A, the dominant strain.

"What we're particularly concerned about is the effect on young people," she said.

"The symptoms are very similar to COVID."

Previously in SA, only certain groups of people, such as young children and those with medical risk factors were eligible for free flu vaccines.

The program will be in place until the end of June.

Tasmania and the territories are the only jurisdictions where flu shots are not free for everybody.

In the NT and the ACT, vulnerable groups are eligible for free jabs.

That includes Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders, young children, pregnant women and anyone over 65.