St John WA to run free pop-up flu vax clinics for footy fans at stadium

For the first time ever, pop-up influenza clinics will be run by St John WA in conjunction with the WA Government at AFL games at Optus Stadium.

The State Government is encouraging Western Australians to protect themselves this winter with the launch of its free flu vaccination program.

Last year, WA experienced one of the worst flu seasons on record, resulting in hospitals treating thousands of seriously ill patients of all ages.

Getting vaccinated this winter is one the best ways to protect the community.

The WA first, pop-up vaccination clinics at Optus Stadium are just one way to protect against flu.

Public immunisation targets have been set so West Australians can be informed about progress against vaccination rates.

The targets are:

• 30 per cent of infants and children under 12;
• 65 per cent of adults aged 65 and over; and
• 40 per cent of all eligible Western Australians.

Young children and older adults have been prioritised because they are most at risk of serious illness.

In 2025, adults aged 65 years and older had the highest rate of influenza-related hospitalisations, followed by children aged 6 months to 4 years.

The vaccination pop-up clinics delivered by St John WA will be rolled out at AFL games at Optus Stadium on 2, 7 and 17 May.

“Winter places significant pressure on our hospitals and health workforce, and vaccination is one of the most effective ways we can reduce that impact,” Health Minister Meredith Hammat said.

“I encourage all Western Australians to take advantage of the free vaccines available and play their part in keeping our community safe this winter.”

This sentiment was echoed by St John WA’s Chief Preventative Health Officer Megs O’Donnell, who said she was proud of the organisation’s involvement in the clinics.

“Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself, your family, and your community,” she said.

“We’re making it easier to get vaccinated, with free pop-up clinics across three game days.

“Boosting vaccination rates will mean fewer flu cases, less pressure on our health system, and fewer missed games.”