With the changes coming into effect this week, it's expected to spur even more people in our region to now seek opportunities to get their jabs as soon as they can.

Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall said he had been pushing Hunter New England Health to abandon its booking system and offer a daily walk-in clinic at the hospital to those 12 years and above, making it even easier for locals, and people across the region, to fast-track their first or second COVID jabs.

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"This is brilliant news for locals and I thank Hunter New England Health, and Susan Heyman in particular, for agreeing with my request on behalf of the community," Mr Marshall said.

He said it will give people maximum opportunity to bring forward their second doses of either vaccine, or come in for their first jab.

"It will also give more chances for our young people to be jabbed, who can also access Moderna vaccine through local pharmacists.

"This is an outstanding outcome that adds another avenue, alongside the GP network, University of New England Medical Centre and Armajun Aboriginal Health Service, where residents can access a jab.

Mr Marshall said he was urging people in Armidale, and surrounding areas, to take full advantage of these walk-in clinics at the hospital and increase our region's impressive vaccination rates even further.

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Walk-in Pfizer clinics will operate at Armidale Hospital Monday to Thursday each week, from 9am to 3pm.

Walk-in AstraZeneca clinics will be every Friday, from 9am to 3pm. No bookings are required.

Mr Marshall said Armidale Hospital would host an extra Pfizer clinic, targeting the Aboriginal community, this Friday (October 15), between 10.30am and 3pm.

"While great work is being done to improve access to vaccine in local Aboriginal communities, I'm concerned the take up is still too low," he said.

"I encourage those members of the community who are yet to have their first dose, or are waiting for their second to roll up their sleeve and consider this clinic as an option."

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