What Vaccines Are Mandatory for Children in Australia?

Vaccination is a crucial part of protecting children from preventable diseases. In Australia, childhood immunisations are guided by the National Immunisation Program (NIP), ensuring children receive vaccines at key developmental stages. While vaccination is not legally mandatory, policies such as No Jab, No Play and No Jab, No Pay encourage high immunisation rates by linking vaccination status to childcare enrolment and government benefits.

The National Immunisation Program (NIP)

The Australian Government provides free vaccines under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) to protect children from serious diseases. The program follows an age-based immunisation schedule, ensuring children receive vaccines at the right time.

Childhood Vaccination Schedule

The following vaccines are recommended under the NIP and are required for children to stay up to date with their immunisations:

At Birth:

  • Hepatitis B

At 2 Months (Can be given from 6 weeks):

  • Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (Whooping Cough) (DTPa)

  • Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)

  • Hepatitis B

  • Polio

  • Pneumococcal

  • Rotavirus

At 4 Months:

  • DTPa-HepB-Hib-IPV (same as 2-month vaccines)

  • Pneumococcal

  • Rotavirus

At 6 Months:

  • DTPa-HepB-Hib-IPV

  • Pneumococcal (for medically at-risk children)

  • Rotavirus

At 12 Months:

  • Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)

  • Meningococcal ACWY

  • Pneumococcal

  • Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)

At 18 Months:

  • DTPa (booster dose)

  • Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and Varicella (MMRV)

At 4 Years:

  • DTPa-IPV (booster dose for diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, and polio)

At 12-13 Years (School-Based Program):

  • Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

  • Meningococcal ACWY

At 14-16 Years:

  • DTPa booster (for adolescents who missed their earlier doses)

Policies Encouraging Vaccination

No Jab, No Play

The No Jab, No Play policy applies in some Australian states, requiring children to be fully vaccinated to enrol in childcare or kindergarten. This policy aims to protect young children from vaccine-preventable diseases in early learning environments. The only exemptions allowed are for valid medical reasons, such as severe allergic reactions or immune system disorders, which must be certified by a registered medical professional.

No Jab, No Pay

Under the No Jab, No Pay policy, eligibility for certain government benefits, such as Family Tax Benefit Part A and the Child Care Subsidy, is linked to a child’s immunisation status. Parents must ensure their child is up to date with all required vaccinations under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) to continue receiving these financial benefits. This policy encourages higher immunisation rates and reduces the risk of preventable disease outbreaks.

Catch-Up Vaccinations

Children who have missed one or more scheduled vaccinations may be eligible for a catch-up immunisation schedule under the NIP. This allows them to receive any overdue vaccines at no cost, ensuring they are fully protected against serious illnesses. Parents can consult their GP or local immunisation provider to organise a tailored catch-up plan based on their child’s vaccination history.

Exemptions from Vaccination

The only accepted exemption from vaccinations in Australia is for medical reasons, such as a severe allergic reaction or a compromised immune system. These exemptions must be certified by a medical professional and recorded in the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR).

Why Vaccination Matters

Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect children and the wider community from serious infectious diseases. Herd immunity—achieved when a high percentage of the population is immunised—helps prevent disease outbreaks and protects vulnerable individuals who cannot receive vaccinations due to medical conditions. By keeping up with childhood immunisations, parents play a crucial role in safeguarding their child’s health and contributing to a healthier community.

Checking Your Child’s Immunisation Status

Parents can check their child’s immunisation history through the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR), accessible via:

  • MyGov account linked to Medicare

  • The Express Plus Medicare app

  • Your GP or local immunisation provider

Book Your Child’s Vaccination Appointment

To ensure your child receives timely vaccinations, schedule appointments with your GP or local immunisation provider. Staying on track with the NIP Schedule is vital for your child's health and the well-being of the community.

At North Brighton Medical Centre, we offer a full range of childhood vaccinations in line with the National Immunisation Program (NIP). Our experienced GPs provide a safe and supportive environment for immunisations, ensuring your child receives the best possible care. Book an appointment with us to keep your child up to date with their immunisations.

For more detailed information, visit the Australian Government Department of Health's website.