Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Bridget Archer, said the Meningococcal B vaccine can cost families hundreds of dollars per child, and funding the program ensures children and young people can be vaccinated based on health need, not household income.
"Our $4 million investment will both strengthen Tasmania's immunisation efforts and remove a significant out of pocket cost for families, supporting families to keep their children safe and healthy," Minister Archer said.
"At a time when families are managing cost of living pressures, providing free access to this vaccine is a practical step that supports both household budgets and public health."
Minister Archer said investing in vaccination programs like this supports healthier communities and reduces future pressure on families and the health system.
"It forms part of our Government's broader focus on preventive health, helping reduce the risk of serious illness, hospitalisation and long term impacts on individuals and families," Minister Archer said.
"This Budget delivers a strong economy and caring community.
"It ensures our economy continues to be strong, resilient and well positioned for the future."
The program will offer free, early protection to infants from six weeks up to two years of age.
It will commence on 1 July 2026 and will offer catch-up vaccination for children born from 1 July 2025.
Vaccination is the best way to protect against the disease, however detecting and treating cases quickly is vital and can save lives.
Anyone with suspected meningococcal disease should seek emergency medical treatment immediately.
Symptoms of meningococcal disease can include rash, severe headache, fever, confusion and muscle pain. Babies and infants can be unsettled or drowsy, floppy, pale or blotchy, or not feed.
Currently, under the National Immunisation Program, the meningococcal B vaccine is funded for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander infants and those with increased risk from medical conditions.
This new State-funded vaccine program will build upon the national program to protect all Tasmanian infants against the meningococcal B strain.
Meningococcal ACWY vaccines continue to be funded under the national program for infants, adolescents, and those with medical risk conditions.
Meningococcal ACWY and B vaccines continue to be recommended and available privately for other people who are not covered by funded programs but would like to protect themselves against the disease.
