The Department of Health has released its latest COVID-19 Vaccination alert for disability services providers with some updates to resources and information.

Booster doses

People with disability who have completed their two primary doses of a COVID-19 vaccine at least four months ago are eligible for a booster dose.

In-reach service

Disability service providers for disability residential accommodation settings will be contacted by a Commonwealth vaccination provider to organise in-reach for booster doses.

Paediatric Pfizer vaccine

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has approved the Comirnaty (Pfizer) vaccine as safe and effective for use among children aged 5 to 11 years old.

NDIA COVID-19 pricing arrangements

The NDIA has announced changes to meal preparation and delivery, some supported independent living supports, and deep cleaning as temporary COVID-19 measures.

COVID-19 Vaccine webinar

The Australian Government held a webinar for disability service providers on issues of vaccination consent, hesitancy and refusal that can arise when supporting clients with intellectual disability.

Emergency and disaster management

The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission has introduced new NDIS Practice Standards and Quality Indicators for registered NDIS providers. These will support registered providers in the delivery of safe and quality supports and services to NDIS participants in times of emergency and disaster – including during sustained disruptions such as COVID-19.

National Coronavirus Helpline with enhanced help for callers with disability

The National Coronavirus Helpline now offers enhanced help to callers with disability, their family/friends or carers. The helpline phone number is 1800 020 080.

Providers are reminded that the Department of Health’s Carramar vaccination clinic supports people with disability, mental health conditions, who require a low sensory environment or may need other additional support to receive their vaccination.