Animal Health & Husbandry
1 September, 2026
Preventing Q fever on farm
DAIRY farmers can now access subsidised Q fever testing and vaccinations until May 2027.
The subsidised program is part of a project led by GippsDairy and funded by WorkSafe Victoria and Dairy Australia.
If you are a Victorian dairy farm owner, or share or lease a dairy farm and are over the age of 15 you are eligible to access subsidised Q fever testing and vaccinations.
Q fever is an infectious disease, caused by the spreading of the bacterium Coxiella Burnetti from animals to humans.
Q fever can cause long-term complications including chronic fatigue and heart disease.
People who work with animals, particularly cattle, sheep and goats, or animal products (such as unpasteurised milk) are at a higher risk of developing Q fever, however, there is an effective vaccine for protection against the disease.
The process involves registering for two appointments with a chosen participating clinic (which includes Portland Family Practice and the Timboon Clinic).
The appointments require a $145 co-contribution; with the subsidy saving farmers around $100 (depending on the clinic, farmers may be charged an appointment fee for testing).
Testing includes a blood and skin test for presence of Q fever antibodies.
During the second appointment, which must be seven days from the testing appointment, test results will determine whether a vaccination is required.
If no vaccination is required, farmers will be reimbursed $115.
For more information on appointment days and availability contact either the Portland Family Practice or Timboon Clinic.