Key facts
- We manage Australian Government immunisation programs and policies.
- Independent experts help to make these programs are safe and effective.
Our role
We work with key stakeholders to manage immunisation programs and policies in line with the National Preventive Health Strategy 2021–2030.
Our priorities are to:
- manage the National Immunisation Program (NIP)
- make sure the vaccines Australia needs are available
- provide technical advice on immunisation
- work with the Therapeutic Goods Association (TGA) on the use and safety of vaccines.
Committees and groups
We get independent expert advice to help the Australian Government make decisions about vaccines and immunisation programs. The:
- Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) gives expert advice about how vaccines should be used in Australia. It develops vaccine recommendations for health professionals.
- Therapeutic Goods Administration checks vaccines before they can be used in Australia. It makes sure the benefits of a vaccine outweigh the risks. It also continues to monitor vaccine safety after a vaccine is approved.
- Advisory Committee on Vaccines gives independent medical and scientific advice on vaccine safety, quality and effectiveness.
- Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee advises the Australian Government about which vaccines should be funded through the NIP.
These groups play different roles in vaccine approval, safety monitoring, recommendations and funding decisions.
Learn more about how the NIP works and how vaccines are added to the program.
Research
The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) funds research to improve treatment and health outcomes for Australians, including research about vaccines.
Clinical advice
The Australian Immunisation Handbook is a guide for health professionals. It provides advice on the safe and effective use of vaccines.
ATAGI develops the vaccine recommendations in the handbook. The NHMRC approves them.
Strategy
The National Immunisation Strategy for Australia 2025 to 2030 aims to increase and maintain immunisation rates in Australia.
We help to implement the strategy to protect people from vaccine-preventable diseases.