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Structural Failure Shuts Queensland’s Vaccine Warehouse, Interim Distribution Shifts to Victoria

An engineering review will determine when operations can safely resume.

Overview

  • The Richlands loading bay and retaining wall collapsed in late December, closing the 2023 purpose-built site that held Queensland Health’s vaccine stockpile.
  • Toll has moved operations to a temporary Victorian facility and is sending temperature‑controlled deliveries to Queensland clinics using coolers.
  • Queensland Health says contingency plans are maintaining supply, stock remains within temperature controls, and orders are being prioritised with no anticipated extra cost to taxpayers.
  • Frontline providers report delays, with some GPs turning parents away from scheduled childhood vaccinations and citing shortages including meningococcal B and flu doses, while pharmacists flag concerns about HPV availability.
  • Access to the Richlands warehouse remains restricted during investigations and a structural review, and authorities expect distribution to stabilise soon.