Free RSV vaccinations are being rolled out for the first time in Western Australian aged care facilities.This marks a significant expansion of the state’s immunisation program. It also reflects growing concern about respiratory illness in vulnerable communities. Previously, mothers and babies were eligible for free RSV vaccines. However, the government has now extended the rollout to residents aged 65 and over living in residential aged care.

The move comes as respiratory illnesses continue to place pressure on aged care providers and hospital systems. This strain is particularly evident during peak winter months.

So, what’s behind the decision — and what could it mean for the aged care sector?

What’s behind the move?

The expansion follows Western Australia experiencing its worst flu season on record last year, with more than 35,000 cases detected statewide.In addition, more than 12,000 cases of RSV were recorded. Around one-third occurred in people aged over 65.  Concerningly, this is the age group most vulnerable to serious complications, hospitalisation and extended recovery times.

Respiratory illnesses can spread quickly in residential aged care settings. Many residents have underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems, making them particularly vulnerable. Preventative measures have therefore become a growing priority for governments seeking to reduce severe illness before it escalates.

The decision makes Western Australia the second Australian state to introduce a free RSV vaccination program for seniors. It follows Victoria’s move in July last year to provide free RSV vaccines to people aged over 60 living in public and Aboriginal community-controlled aged care facilities.

What will be the impact?

It is estimated about 15,000 aged care residents will take up the free vaccine, saving up to $300 each and improving access to preventative healthcare.

“RSV is highly contagious… it can cause serious illness for older people, especially those with heart or lung conditions or weakened immune systems,” WA Preventive Health Minister Sabine Winton told the ABC.

Health experts say vaccinating more aged care residents will help ease pressure on the state’s hospital system. In January this year, ambulances spent more than 4,000 hours ramped outside Perth hospitals, highlighting the strain on emergency departments.

“This is part of our broader winter strategy, to ease pressure on emergency departments by preventing illness before it escalates,” Ms Winton said.

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners has been advocating for improved access to RSV vaccines for some time and welcomed the move.

“Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to prevent avoidable hospital presentations,” chair Dr Ramya Raman said.

“This initiative will protect individuals while easing pressure on emergency departments and hospital wards when they are busiest.”

According to the government, the RSV program for babies and infants has already reduced hospital admissions by 500. It is hoped similar preventative benefits can be achieved in aged care settings across the state.

As aged care providers respond to increasing health risks and stricter compliance requirements, the role of skilled, well-trained staff has never been more important. Aged care workers are at the frontline of infection control and resident safety. They support vaccination programs, monitor residents for symptoms and maintain accurate clinical documentation. With the sector continuing to evolve, employers are looking for candidates who can clearly demonstrate their clinical knowledge, attention to detail and commitment to best-practice care standards.

Are you looking for a new career in aged care? Aged Care Resumes can help. We are pleased to offer various services including our resume writing service and cover letter writing service, tailored specifically to the aged care sector.

Article References

RACGP (19 February 2026) ‘RACGP welcomes free RSV vaccinations for older Western Australians’, RACGP, accessed 20 February 2026.

Waller, P (19 February 2026) ‘Free RSV flu vaccine for aged care residents to be rolled out in WA’, ABC News, accessed 20 February 2026.