Wednesday April 29, 2026

Immunisation remains one of the greatest achievements in global public health, saving millions of lives every year. For generations, vaccines have protected communities from serious and potentially deadly diseases, dramatically reducing the burden of illnesses such as smallpox and polio.

However, new data from the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) show a troubling trend: childhood vaccination coverage in Australia has declined for the fifth consecutive year. These ongoing decreases are particularly pronounced among adolescents, raising significant public health concerns.

Vaccination rates have not recovered to pre-pandemic levels, and delays in receiving vaccines are becoming increasingly common—especially for those scheduled at older ages. In 2025:

  • Two in five children received their first measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine late
  • One in five children received their second diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTP) vaccine late
  • Two in ten adolescents had not received a human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine dose by age 15
  • Three in ten had not received a meningococcal ACWY vaccine by age 17

(Source NCIRS – Annual Immunisation Coverage Report 2025 – Summary)

Influenza vaccination uptake also remains below optimal levels across all age groups, despite being funded under the National Immunisation Program for young children and older adults.

World Immunisation Week provides an important opportunity to reflect on the critical role vaccines play in protecting individuals and communities. This year’s theme, “For every generation, vaccines work,” underscores the lifelong benefits of immunisation.

Barwon South West Public Health Unit Physician, Dr Akhtar Hussain, is urging the community to take action.

“We are calling on everyone—especially parents of young children—to ensure vaccinations are up to date,” Dr Hussain said.

“Delaying or missing vaccinations increases the risk of serious illness. Immunisation is a cornerstone of primary health care and one of the most effective investments in protecting community health. Vaccines are essential for preventing and controlling infectious disease outbreaks.”

“As we head into winter, it’s particularly important for adults to check their flu vaccination status. RSV vaccination is now recommended for older adults, including those aged 75 years and over, and is available for eligible people from 15 May. Measles vaccinations are also available for those who are not fully protected.”

The Barwon Health Immunisation Service continues to support families by providing catch-up vaccinations for children, alongside routine immunisation services.

Immunisation Lead Caroline Poynder said the team is committed to improving access across the region.

“We are continuing to offer catch-up vaccination sessions for families through our Barwon Health vaccination centre for the City of Greater Geelong and outreach sites in Corio and Ocean Grove, in addition to our regular schedule and seasonal flu program,” Ms Poynder said.

“We also deliver school-based vaccination programs for Year 7 and Year 10 students. If your child has missed any vaccinations, we encourage you to speak with your immunisation provider about available options.”

To book an appointment with the Barwon Health Immunisation Service, visit www.bswphu.org.au, or contact your GP or pharmacist.

Eligibility criteria apply for some vaccines. For more information, visit the Victorian Department of Health website www.health.vic.gov.au/public-health/immunsation