Free MMR catch-up — adults 20–59 in Victoria
The Victorian Government funds free measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination for adults aged 20–59 who don't have two documented doses. No Medicare card required. Two doses, four weeks apart.
Free until 30 June 2027
The Victorian state-funded program runs through 30 June 2027. After that, MMR catch-up for adults outside the funded age range becomes a private vaccination at the standard cost. Don't wait — both doses are 4 weeks apart so you can finish comfortably within the program.
What you need to know
Who
Victorian residents aged 20–59 without two documented MMR doses.
What
Two doses of the MMR vaccine, at least 4 weeks apart.
Cost
Free. Vaccine + administration covered by the Victorian program.
Medicare
Not required. Anyone in the eligible age range can have it.
GP referral
Not needed. Walk in or book directly with us.
Program end
30 June 2027 — confirmed funding through that date.
Why a free adult MMR catch-up?
Many adults born between 1966 and 1992 received only a single MMR dose as a child, before the two-dose schedule became standard. A single dose gives partial protection, but two doses are needed for the high level of immunity that protects you and reduces transmission to vulnerable people around you (infants too young for vaccination, immunocompromised people, people who cannot mount a strong vaccine response).
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known — a single infected person can transmit to 12–18 unvaccinated contacts. Global measles cases have risen significantly in recent years, including in Australia, due to declining childhood vaccination coverage and post-pandemic catch-up backlogs. Closing the adult immunity gap is the most efficient public-health intervention available.
The Victorian Department of Health funds this program because it's cost-effective — preventing a single measles outbreak avoids days of contact tracing, school closures and hospitalisations.
Two doses, 4 weeks apart
First dose
Bring photo ID and whatever immunisation record you have. The immuniser checks your AIR record, confirms eligibility, completes the pre-vaccination screening, administers the dose, and you wait 15 minutes for the standard observation period.
Second dose — 4 weeks later
Return at least 4 weeks after the first dose. Same process. After the second dose your AIR record shows you as fully MMR-immune.
Ready to start your MMR catch-up?
Walk in, or reserve a time online — both doses are free under the program.
What to bring
- Photo ID showing your name and date of birth (driver licence, passport, or any government ID).
- Any past immunisation records you have — AIR Immunisation History Statement (download from myGov), childhood blue book, school record, overseas record.
- Medicare card if you have one (helpful but not required for this program).
- A short list of any current medications and allergies — for the standard pre-vaccination screening.
FAQs about the MMR catch-up program
Who is eligible for the free MMR catch-up?
Victorian residents aged 20 to 59 years who do not have two documented doses of MMR vaccination. No Medicare card is required. Eligibility is based on age and not having two doses on record — vaccination history is checked at the appointment.
How long does the free program run?
The Victorian Government MMR catch-up program is currently funded through to 30 June 2027. After that date, MMR catch-up for adults outside the funded age range becomes a private vaccination at the standard cost. Don't wait — completing both doses now (4 weeks apart) means you finish well within the program.
I don't know if I had MMR as a child. What should I do?
Bring whatever record you have — Medicare AIR statement, childhood blue book, GP records, school records. If you genuinely have no records and aren't sure, MMR vaccination is safe to give even if you turn out to already be immune. The state-funded program covers you regardless.
How many doses do I need?
Two doses, at least 4 weeks apart. Most adults complete both within a few weeks. The free program covers both doses.
Are there any side effects?
Common: sore arm at the injection site, mild fever, sometimes a mild rash 5–12 days after vaccination (not infectious). Sometimes joint pain in adult women. Severe reactions are rare; we observe you for 15 minutes after the vaccine as standard practice.
Can I get it if I'm pregnant or planning pregnancy?
MMR is a live vaccine and is not given in pregnancy. Avoid pregnancy for 28 days after a dose. If you're planning pregnancy, complete MMR catch-up beforehand. See our pregnancy page for pre-conception immunity guidance.
I'm immunocompromised. Can I have MMR?
Severe immunocompromise is a contraindication to live vaccines including MMR. Discuss with your specialist or GP before considering vaccination. Your immuniser will work through this at the pre-vaccination screening.
Why is there a free catch-up program?
Many adults born between 1966 and 1992 only received a single MMR dose as a child, before the second-dose schedule was introduced. Measles is one of the most contagious infections known and outbreaks have increased globally in recent years. The catch-up program closes the immunity gap in the adult population.
Can I have MMR with my flu shot or COVID-19 booster?
Yes — MMR can be safely co-administered with most other adult vaccines including influenza and COVID-19. Discuss at the appointment.
Is there a service fee?
No — the Victorian state-funded MMR catch-up program covers both the vaccine and administration for eligible adults aged 20–59. Some other vaccines incur a $20 administration fee, but this program does not.
Sources and further reading
- Victorian Department of Health — MMR vaccine program
- Australian Immunisation Handbook — Measles chapter
- Better Health Channel — Measles immunisation
- NCIRS — National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance
- MMR vaccine page on this site
General information only — not personal medical advice. Vaccines are described by disease or category in line with the Therapeutic Goods Advertising Code. Your AHPRA-registered immuniser confirms what applies at the pre-vaccination screening.
Free until 30 June 2027 — don't wait
Walk in for your first dose, then return 4 weeks later for the second. Both free under the Victorian state-funded program.