More GPs than anticipated have signed up to offer COVID-19 vaccinations, with uptake of the Federal Government’s invitation “far greater” than expected.

Last week practices were invited to join Phase 1B of the national program which aims to administer the two-dose AstraZeneca vaccine to some six million Australians, for which they will get $30.75 for the first dose.

The government said it wanted 1000 GP practices to sign up.

Federal Minister for Health Greg Hunt announced on Sunday there would be at least 2000 “points of presence” around Australia offering the vaccine, with more support from GPs than expected.