ALL South Australians aged 12 and over can book an appointment to receive the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination from today.
More than 60,000 appointments at state-run clinics have been added to help meet the expected demand from the eligibility expansion.
Premier Steven Marshall said SA continued to increase its vaccination run rate as dose supplies increase.
"Last week was yet another record week for vaccinations in SA, with more than 102,000 doses delivered across the state," he said.
"We want to build on this momentum. With Pfizer eligibility expanded for everyone from 12 years-old and more and more appointments coming online, we are looking forward to our run rate increasing strongly.
"Vaccination is our pathway out of the pandemic and there is absolutely no reason for South Australians to wait to book an appointment."
Mr Marshall also announced today that for the rest of this month, South Australian year 11 and 12 students aged 16 and over can get priority walk-in access upon showing their student card, for their COVID-19 vaccination at selected SA Health run vaccination clinics.
This priority access gives year 11s and 12s the opportunity to be fully vaccinated before they finish the school year, which is typically a few weeks earlier than other year levels.
"Throughout the pandemic, we have been laser focused on mitigating any disruptions to education of our school students," Mr Marshall said.
"This new initiative will help further ensure students are able to be fully vaccinated before exams and other crucial times of their studies."
RELATED READING: Victorian truckies being turned back at SA border
RELATED READING: Cattle pour-ons are not a cure for COVID, experts warn
Students with an underlying medical condition can walk in at the above clinics, but will need a referral from their GP. Alternatively, they can book to get vaccinated at participating GPs.
Health and Wellbeing Minister Stephen Wade said SA's supply of Pfizer was increasing and the state government was focused on getting the vaccine into the arms of South Australians.
"It is fantastic to see record numbers of people rolling up their sleeves to get vaccinated," he said.
"Almost 60 per cent of South Australians have had at least one dose of the vaccine and over 40pc are now fully vaccinated. We are determined to push those numbers higher in the coming weeks.
"I want to thank every single South Australian who has rolled up their sleeve, or booked a vaccination appointment. You are playing your part in keeping the community safe. We know what we need to do. Let's get this done."
The Pfizer vaccine is available to anyone over 12 years at SA Health clinics, while AstraZeneca will continue to be available to anyone over 18 years with informed consent.
Year 11 and 12 students can receive a vaccination without an appointment at the following clinics, Wayville (before 3.30pm, Elizabeth, Enfield, Noarlunga, Port Augusta, Whyalla, Port Lincoln, Victor Harbor (call before attending), Mt Barker (call before attending) and Gawler (call before attending.)
Families and students who are eligible are encouraged to book asap at covidvaccine.sa.gov.au.
- Start the day with all the big news in agriculture. Sign up here to receive our daily Stock Journal newsletter.
