All Aboriginal people 12 years and over are eligible and a priority population for COVID-19 vaccination, yet the current vaccination rate among Aboriginal people in NSW is significantly lower than non-Aboriginal people. Rising case numbers in North-Western NSW and Western Sydney among Aboriginal people have increased the urgency for vaccination. 

Building on trusted relationships with patients and local community, rural and remote NSW General Practice is well placed to overcome barriers to vaccination among Aboriginal people, including misunderstanding about eligibility and concerns about adverse reactions. 

NSW Health suggests the following measures to increase COVID-19 vaccination rates among Aboriginal people:

• Ensure eligible Aboriginal people are prioritised for a vaccination appointment
• Contact eligible existing Aboriginal patients and offer priority vaccination
• Ensure people who enquire about COVID-19 vaccination are asked if they identify as Aboriginal to confirm their vaccination eligibility
• Offer vaccination to Aboriginal patients when attending for other reasons
• If you are not providing COVID-19 vaccination, refer Aboriginal patients to another provider
• Display hardcopy posters and social media images to encourage vaccination 

Information to support health professionals to talk to Aboriginal people about vaccination is available here. 

Please contact moh-cah-covid19@health.nsw.gov.au if you have questions or would like additional resources to support Aboriginal people around COVID-19 vaccination. 

NSW Health appreciates the significant contribution rural and remote NSW General Practice is making to the COVID-19 control and prevention efforts.