Media Release
Getting a copy of your child’s immunisation history—as easy as ABC
29 January 2008
As the new school year approaches the Minister for Human Services, Senator Joe Ludwig, is encouraging parents to keep track of their children’s immunisation history on the internet, through a free service offered by Medicare Australia.
The Australian Childhood Immunisation Register records details of vaccinations given to children who live in Australia and are under the age of seven.
“Most primary schools and even many pre-schools require a proof of immunisation statement before enrolling a child,” Senator Ludwig said.
“A child must also be up-to-date with immunisation, or have a valid exemption, for a parent to be eligible to receive the Australian Government Child Care Benefit and the Maternity Immunisation Allowance.”
“The Australian Childhood Immunisation Register makes obtaining proof of immunisation easy.”
While an immunisation history statement can be requested at any time, a copy is automatically sent to parents by post when their child turns one, two and five years of age.
Parents who have children under seven years of age and are registered with Medicare Australia’s Online Services can view and print a copy of their child’s immunisation history statement by visiting www.medicareaustralia.gov.au/online. Statements are also available at Medicare offices or by calling 1800 653 809.
People who are not registered with Medicare Australia’s Online Services can sign up either online or by visiting a Medicare office.
“Medicare Australia provides more than one million immunisation history statements to Australian families every year,” Senator Ludwig added.
“It’s important that parents are able to access the statements in ways that are convenient to them.”
Using Online Services, registered users can also:
- view their Medicare Safety Net balance
- view their organ donor registration details
- view and update some of their Medicare personal details
- view their Medicare benefit tax statement
- request a duplicate or replacement Medicare card
Media Contact: Barb Barrett —0448 469 787.