About this resource
Childhood immunisation – Frequently asked questions
Routine childhood immunisation helps protect kids from serious diseases like measles and hooping cough, turning our littlies into superheroes who help keep the community safe!
Are vaccinations safe for bubs and littlies?
Yes. Vaccines in Australia are safe and carefully tested before they’re approved. They go through strong checks to make sure they work well and protect our kids. After they’re rolled out, vaccines continue to be closely monitored for safety.
Are vaccines linked to autism?
No. Vaccines do not cause autism. This idea came from an old study in 1998 that’s since been proven false and withdrawn. Since then, lots of high-quality research with large groups of kids has found no connection between vaccines and autism. Vaccines remain a safe way to protect our littlies and the wider community.
How do vaccines protect kids and the community?
Vaccines help keep our littlies from getting really sick and stop diseases spreading to family, Elders and others. When lots of people are vaccinated, it’s much harder for diseases to spread around which helps keep everyone healthier.
Is it better for kids to get sick to build their immunity?
Some people think natural immunity is stronger and lasts longer than childhood immunisations, but getting sick to build immunity can be risky for bubs and littlies and may lead to serious illness or long-term health problems. Vaccines give strong, safe protection without those risks, and can be boosted over time to keep immunity working well. Vaccines give our littlies protection without causing disease. It is much safer for them to have a vaccine than getting the disease itself.
Why do they need so many vaccinations when they’re so young?
Health experts develop the immunisation schedule so that each jab is given at the right time to build strong protection early in life. It’s safe for bubs and littlies to get more than one vaccine at the same visit.
Do we really need all the vaccinations on the childhood immunisation schedule?
Yes. Following the immunisation schedule gives our bubs and littlies the best protection possible. Even if a disease isn’t common now, it can still be serious and come back if we stop vaccinating. Some diseases, like measles, are becoming more common than you think. Getting all the vaccines at the recommended ages gives littlies the best protection.
How come our mob need some extra vaccines?
Our communities can be at higher risk of serious illness, so extra protection helps keep everyone strong and our communities healthy.
I heard some kids still get sick after being vaccinated.
No vaccine works 100% of the time, but vaccinated kids are much less likely to get really sick or have serious problems if they do catch something.
My child has missed a few jabs, what can I do?
That’s okay! You can catch up your littlie any time for free through the National Immunisation Program. Have a yarn with your doctor or health worker to get back on track.