Federal government to spend on flu shots for people over 65

The federal government will spend $31 million on vaccinations to try to stop another deadly flu outbreak after more than 1100 people died last year.

The federal government will spend $31 million on a flu vaccination program this year. (AAP)

Older Australians will be given free, stronger flu vaccinations by the federal government in an effort to prevent another deadly outbreak.

More than 1100 people across Australia died from the flu last year, with most of them over the age of 65.

"It was a horror flu season last year, a mutation in the flu strain, that led to some tragedies with seniors," federal Health Minister Greg Hunt told the Nine Network on Sunday.

The stronger vaccine will be delivered in a $31 million program.

"We will be making it available free of charge to everybody over the age of 65 because sadly that's where 95 per cent of those who lost their lives are from in terms of age," Mr Hunt said.

"And this is the world's leading vaccines and in particular we have been able to secure supplies for all Australians that will require it. So I think that's a real breakthrough."