Back-to-school immunisations

With the school year approaching, now is a good time for families across the Murrumbidgee to check their child’s immunisation status and make sure records are up to date before term begins.

Between holidays, travel, and end-of-year disruptions, it’s common for vaccinations or paperwork to be delayed. A quick check now can help avoid last-minute stress when childcare or school starts.

Immunisation requirements for childcare and school

To enrol a child in childcare, parents must provide an approved Australian Government immunisation form showing that their child:

  • is up to date with vaccinations, or

  • is on a recognised catch-up schedule, or

  • has a medical exemption or natural immunity

Vaccination is not compulsory and parents continue to have a choice. However, conscientious objectors cannot enrol children in childcare and will need to make alternative arrangements.

For primary and secondary school enrolment, schools are required to request an immunisation certificate. Children who are not vaccinated can still enrol. However, if there is an outbreak of a vaccine-preventable disease, unvaccinated children may be asked to stay home until it is safe to return.

Why timing matters

Immunisations are most effective when given on their due date. Delaying vaccines can leave children at risk of catching serious illnesses and becoming very unwell.

It’s also important to know that:

  • Children with a minor illness, such as a runny nose or mild cold, can still be safely immunised

  • Immunising many people in the community helps protect those who are unvaccinated or vulnerable, reducing the spread of serious diseases

The NSW Immunisation Schedule is available at:
https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation/Publications/nsw-immunisation-schedule.pdf

School vaccination program

NSW Health works with schools to provide a free school vaccination program for Year 7 and Year 10 students.

To take part, parents need to give consent either online or by completing and returning the paper consent form sent home by the school.

If a child misses a school-based vaccination, catch-up doses can be arranged through a local GP, pharmacy, or Aboriginal Medical Service.

More information:

What parents can do now

  • Check your child’s immunisation status through the Australian Immunisation Register

  • Make a GP appointment early if a vaccination or catch-up dose is due

  • Ensure immunisation records are ready for childcare or school enrolment

Taking action now can help make the start of the school year smoother for families, schools, and the wider community.

For more information, visit https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation

VaccinationCristy Houghton