Australians were getting this vaccine for free. Now they could pay up to $180

Key points

• Australians not covered by the national program can now be charged up to $180 for a COVID-19 vaccination, with prices set by individual pharmacies. Since 1 October, the vaccine has been part of the routine National Immunisation Program, which still covers at-risk groups such as older Australians.
• SBS News found prices differing across chains, with one Chemmart outlet charging $120 and Chemist Warehouse stores charging $179.99.
• One pharmacy owner said the high wholesale price and short expiry date of stock could affect whether pharmacies stock the vaccine.