Reminder: Updates to Strive for 5 Guidelines

The national Strive for 5 guidelines were updated in September 2025 to strengthen vaccine storage and handling standards across Australia.

These changes are designed to ensure optimal cold chain management and safeguard vaccine potency.

The Vaccine Storage Guidelines 'Strive for 5' provides information and advice for vaccine storage management for Australian immunisation service providers, from medical practices to large hospitals, clinics and outreach providers.

‘Strive for 5’ refers to 5 degrees Celsius (°C) — that is, the point midway between +2°C and +8°C which is the temperature range recommended for vaccine storage. Many vaccines are damaged or destroyed at temperatures outside this range.

These guidelines:

• describe the best approach to ensure that clients receive effective and potent vaccines

• describe the ‘cold chain’ and provide advice on what should be done in the event of a cold chain breach

• include resources such as checklists, charts, posters and stickers

🔑 Key Reminder for GPs and Pharmacists:

• All data loggers must be set to record at 5‑minute intervals.

• This is critical to meet compliance requirements and to provide accurate monitoring of vaccine refrigerator performance.

• Please check your devices promptly and confirm settings are aligned with the guidelines.

Maintaining strict adherence to the Strive for 5 standards is essential to protect patients and uphold best practice in immunisation.

For questions, contact Peta Anderson (Clinical Programs and Emergency Response Manager) at peta.anderson@mphn.org.au or Barb Wilson at the PHU at mlhd-immunisation-phu@health.nsw.gov.au