All South Australians aged 12 and over can book an appointment to receive the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination from today.
More than 60,000 appointments at state-run clinics have been added to help meet the expected demand from the eligibility expansion. Today is also the first day all 12 to 15 year olds are eligible to receive a vaccine of any kind in South Australia.
Premier Steven Marshall said South Australia continues to increase its vaccination run rate as dose supplies increase.
"Last week was yet another record week for vaccinations in South Australia, with more than 102,000 doses delivered across the state," said Premier Marshall.
"We want to build on this momentum. With Pfizer eligibility expanded for everyone from 12 years old and more and more appointments coming online, we are looking forward to our run rate increasing strongly.
"South Australians have stepped up throughout the pandemic. We are asking the community step up again - to keep rolling up, getting vaccinated and doing their part in keeping the community safe.
"Vaccination is our pathway out of the pandemic and there is absolutely no reason for South Australians to wait to book an appointment."
Premier Marshall also announced today that for the rest of this month, South Australian year 11 and 12 students aged 16 and over can get priority walk-in access upon showing their student card, for their COVID-19 vaccination at selected SA Health run vaccination clinics.
This priority access gives year 11s and 12s the opportunity to be fully vaccinated before they finish the school year, which is typically a few weeks earlier than other year levels.
"Throughout the pandemic, we have been laser focussed on mitigating any disruptions to education of our school students. This new initiative will help further ensure students are able to be fully vaccinated before exams and other crucial times of their studies," said Premier Marshall.
Students with an underlying medical condition can walk in at the above clinics but will need a referral from their GP. Alternatively, they can book to get vaccinated at participating GPs.
Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade said South Australia's supply of Pfizer was increasing and the Marshall Liberal Government was focused on getting the vaccine into the arms of South Australians.
"It is fantastic to see record numbers of people rolling up their sleeves to get vaccinated," said Minister Wade.
"Almost 60 percent of South Australians have had at least one dose of the vaccine and over 40 percent are now fully vaccinated. We are determined to push those numbers higher in the coming weeks.
"The Marshall Liberal Government is both expanding our clinic network and delivering innovative outreach as we drive towards our goal to give every South Australian access to the vaccine.
"I want to thank every single South Australian who has rolled up their sleeve, or booked a vaccination appointment. You are playing your part in keeping the community safe. We know what we need to do. Let's get this done."
The Pfizer vaccine is available to anyone over 12 years at SA Health clinics, while AstraZeneca will continue to be available to anyone over 18 years with informed consent.
All SA Health clinics will offer vaccines to 12 to 15 year-olds with the exception of pop-up clinics at Adelaide Myer Centre and Pooraka.
In line with ATAGI advice, people who have had one dose of AstraZeneca need to get their second dose of the same vaccine.
For more information, go to www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/covidvaccine.
Year 11 and 12 students can receive a vaccination without an appointment at the following clinics, Wayville (before 3.30pm, Elizabeth, Enfield, Noarlunga, Port Augusta, Whyalla, Port Lincoln, Victor Harbor (call before attending), Mt Barker (call before attending) Gawler (call before attending.)
Families and students who are eligible are encouraged to book asap at covidvaccine.sa.gov.au.
