The ACT government has announced Canberrans can book COVID-19 vaccines for 12 to 15-year-olds from September, 20.
Because vaccines are administered by both the ACT government and the Commonwealth on separate timelines, and through different providers, the process can be confusing.
What vaccines are approved for 12 to 15 year-olds?
Both Pfizer and Moderna have been approved for use by the Therapeutic Goods Administration for people aged 12 and above.
Where can I get a Pfizer vaccine for this age group?
Pfizer is currently available to people aged 12 and over through General Practitioners.
From Monday, September 20, bookings will open for Pfizer doses through ACT government clinics.
This includes the AIS Arena and Canberra Airport mass vaccination clinics, and the Access and Sensory clinic.
This discrepancy is because vaccines administered through GPs and pharmacies are part of the federal government's vaccination program, while the mass vaccination clinics use doses provided to the ACT government.
Where can I get a Moderna vaccine for this age group?
Moderna vaccines will be administered through participating pharmacies from September 20.
When are the soonest appointments?
Pfizer appointments can be booked through GPs from Monday, September 13 in the ACT.
However, when The Canberra Times looked at the site on Monday, most GPs did not have Pfizer appointments available. The soonest available bookings were in November.
And while openings at the mass vaccination clinics will open for 12 to 15 year-olds from September 20, Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith has warned Pfizer supplies are limited.
"There are only a small number of Pfizer appointments available at ACT government mass vaccination clinics before November," she said.
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"People should therefore consider checking with GPs and pharmacies to secure a Pfizer or Moderna vaccination through the Commonwealth's primary care program.
"The fastest path to getting your children vaccinated may be talking to your trusted health professional."
Children from 12 years of age with a disability can book a Pfizer appointment at the Access and Sensory clinic at any time.
Bookings for Moderna are expected to open on Monday, September 20.
How do I book an appointment?
To book a Pfizer appointment through a GP, use the federal government's eligibility checker from September 13. Once you answer all the questions, the website will show you available appointments.
To book a Pfizer appointment at an ACT government clinic, call 02 5124 7700 from 7am to 7pm daily. A call-back option is available.
To book a Moderna vaccine through a pharmacy, use the federal government's eligibility checker from September 20.
