Preparing for the new school year is a busy time for parents. As they organise schoolbook packs, uniforms, and manage the new school year jitters, families also need to check immunisations are up to date. It is a requirement for many Centrelink payments, child care providers and schools that children are up to date with their vaccinations – and it is easy to check.
Minister for Education Dan Tehan said while parents consider the practical items needed for the school year ahead, their children’s health should also be a priority.
“Immunisation is the safest way to protect children from vaccine-preventable diseases,” Mr Tehan said.
“Parents who don’t immunise their children are putting their own kids at risk as well as the children of other people.”
Minister for Government Services Stuart Robert said the quickest way for families to access their child’s immunisation history is online. He encouraged families who currently receive family assistance payments, or who plan to claim this year, to check their child’s immunisation history.
“The easiest way to check your child’s immunisation status is on your Medicare online account through myGov, or the Express Plus Medicare mobile app,” Minister Robert said.
“You can download a copy of your child’s Immunisation History Statement if you need to provide evidence to enrol.
“Immunisation status can impact eligibility for Family Tax Benefit and Child Care Subsidy, to ensure you don’t miss out on payments, make sure you check your child’s immunisation history, and talk to your health provider about a catch up schedule, if you’ve fallen behind,” said Minister Robert.
