The 2025 influenza season has been one of the more significant in recent years, marked by increased case activity and a noticeable rise in the severity of illness across Australia. Health authorities observed heightened transmission levels throughout the winter months, with more widespread community outbreaks compared to the previous year.
This year’s influenza activity began earlier than usual and remained elevated for a prolonged period. A greater proportion of cases occurred among older adults and individuals with underlying health conditions, reinforcing the importance of vaccination and timely medical intervention. Many workplaces and organisations also reported higher absenteeism linked to flu-related illness, highlighting the broader economic and operational impact of the season.
Encouragingly, influenza vaccination rates continued to improve in 2025, supported by strong public health messaging and workplace vaccination programs. Employers across Australia played a key role in promoting preventive health by offering on-site vaccinations and wellbeing initiatives. Increased uptake among older adults and working-age populations demonstrates growing community recognition of the value of vaccination in reducing the spread and severity of influenza.
The 2025 season underscores the ongoing importance of proactive prevention and preparedness. The combination of increased influenza activity and steady vaccine uptake reflects both the challenges and progress in managing seasonal influenza. Strengthening vaccination coverage, promoting early vaccination campaigns, and maintaining awareness across all sectors will be vital in mitigating future seasonal impacts.
| AGE | ACT | NSW | VIC | QLD | SA | WA | TAS | NT | AUS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
6mo – < 5yrs |
48.4 |
24.4 |
30.4 |
20.1 |
27.6 |
23.0 |
29.6 |
35.4 |
25.7 |
|
5 – < 15 yrs |
24.3 |
13.3 |
16.0 |
13.2 |
15.3 |
15.3 |
14.8 |
12.8 |
14.5 |
|
15 – < 50 yrs |
32.7 |
19.5 |
23.7 |
18.3 |
23.6 |
18.8 |
23.4 |
21.5 |
20.8 |
|
50 – < 65 yrs |
44.3 |
30.1 |
34.2 |
31.4 |
36.2 |
30.9 |
39.4 |
25.4 |
32.3 |
|
≥ 65 yrs |
66.0 |
58.2 |
61.8 |
60.4 |
66.6 |
59.8 |
67.9 |
34.9 |
60.5 |
2025 Influenza Vaccination % coverage* - by jurisdiction - all people
Year-to-date (YTD) coverage calculated using vaccinations given 1 March–31 August 2025 (inclusive). AIR data as at 7 September 2025.
Coverage data in these tables may differ slightly from estimates published elsewhere due to differences in calculation methodologies and/or the AIR data being used in the calculation having been downloaded on different dates.