NSW news updates: Over 50s now eligible for COVID vaccine

The next stage of the federal government’s COVID vaccine rollout is here, with up to 15.8 million extra doses expected to be put in arms. Read today's blog. 

The fast-tracked phase 2a is part of the government’s bid to reset the rollout — which has faced criticism for its slow pace and missing vaccination targets — and get more jabs into people’s arms.

Phase 2a makes COVID-19 vaccines available to those aged 50 and over.

National Cabinet has also agreed that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults aged 18-49 years remain in the 2a cohort once this phase commences.

The Cabinet’s decision to bring forward access to the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine only applies for phase 2a eligible people aged 50–69 years commencing with General Practice Respiratory Clinics (GPRCs) and state and territory COVID-19 vaccination sites from May 3

Phases 1a and 1b included quarantine and border workers and their household contacts; health care workers; aged care and disability staff; critical and high risk workers; people aged 70 years and over; Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders aged 50 years and over; and adults with an underlying medical condition or significant disability.

You can confirm if you are able to receive a vaccine by using the Vaccine Eligibility Checker.If you are able to get a jab, the website will also tell you what nearby clinics are offering a vaccine and how you can book an appointment.

Read today's blog posts below.