"*" indicates required fields
The Australian government announced updates to the COVID-19 Vaccine Claims Scheme on 3 April 2023, adding new clinical conditions and narrowing the scope of others. These updates apply retrospectively to vaccines administered from the start of the Australian COVID-19 vaccine roll-out.
If you believe you have experienced one of these new clinical conditions, consult with your medical practitioner and get free legal advice from our vaccine injury expert solicitors.
| New conditions | Applicable Vaccine(s) |
| Transverse Myelitis | AstraZeneca |
| Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis without Thrombocytopenia | AstraZeneca |
| Erythema Multiforme – Major | Pfizer or Moderna |
Below is more information on each of these conditions.
Transverse Myelitis is a neurological disorder involving inflammation of the spinal cord. It can result in pain, muscle weakness, paralysis and sensory problems, potentially affecting both sides of the body. Transverse Myelitis may be linked to immune system responses, including those triggered by vaccines. In the context of COVID-19 vaccines, Transverse Myelitis has been associated internationally with the AstraZeneca vaccine and now forms part of the scheme in Australia.
Rare type of blood clot that forms in the venous sinuses of the brain, potentially leading to brain swelling and hemorrhage. CVST without Thrombocytopenia refers to the condition occurring without a low platelet count. This side effect has been reported in rare cases following the administration of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.
Erythema multiforme is an acute skin reaction that can be brought on by vaccinations, medicines and infections. It typically involves a skin rash initially on the hands or feet before then spreading to the arms, legs and face. This type of condition is not one which is eligible for the Scheme.
It is only the more severe form, Erythema multiforme – Major, which is eligible. This condition is more serious and tends to also affect the mouth, genitals and eyes. It can be life-threatening.
| Existing conditions | Applicable Vaccine(s) |
| Pericarditis | Novavax |
| Myocarditis | Novavax |
Both Pericarditis and Myocarditis involve heart inflammation. They were part of the scheme already for other vaccines and now those who had Novavax are also eligible.
Pericarditis is an inflammatory condition that affects the pericardium, the sac-like membrane surrounding the heart. Symptoms can include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and irregular heartbeat. In some instances, COVID-19 vaccines, such as Novavax, have been linked to cases of Pericarditis. It is believed that the immune response triggered by the vaccine can contribute to the development of Pericarditis in a percentage of the population.
Myocarditis is an inflammatory condition characterised by the inflammation of the heart muscle itself. This condition can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and irregular heartbeat. In some cases, COVID-19 vaccines, including Novavax, have been associated with Myocarditis. Like pericarditus, it’s also believed that the immune response triggered by the vaccine may contribute to the development of Myocarditis in some people.
The government COVID-19 Vaccine Claims Scheme remains highly complex and only a small fraction of self applications have been successful at getting a payout.
Our Covid vaccine injury lawyers have an in-depth understanding of the scheme criteria, how to calculate future financial losses and how to best navigate the claims process to maximise the chances of success. We operate on a no win, no fee basis in appropriate cases. Arrange a free and no obligation chat with our team.
