Families notified of new immunisation requirements

Parents whose family payments may be affected because their child’s immunisations are not up to date or are unable to be confirmed, will soon receive a letter from the Department of Human Services.

From 1 January 2016, under the No Jab, No Pay measure, all children under 20 must be fully immunised or on a catch-up schedule, according to the National Immunisation Program early childhood vaccination schedule to remain eligible for Child Care Benefit, Child Care Rebate and the Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Part A supplement.

Minister for Human Services, Stuart Robert, said families receiving these payments do not need to do anything until the New Year, when the Department will provide tailored advice about next steps for families and their children so they remain eligible for payments.

“My Department is now sending those families general information to make sure there are no surprises when the changes take effect next year,” Minister Robert said.

“Parents do not need to do anything or call the department at this stage.

“We are reviewing immunisation records to determine which families are at risk of losing payments under the rule change, and will provide specific instructions at the beginning of next year before any payments are affected.

“Parents will have plenty of time to meet the new requirements.” 

Minister Robert said the Government had strengthened immunisation requirements for family payments to protect children against vaccine-preventable diseases, and to boost childhood immunisation coverage to protect the community.

“Vaccination objection for personal, philosophical or religious reasons will no longer be a valid exemption from these requirements.

“Exemptions will still apply for children with medical contraindications or natural immunity who have been assessed by a general practitioner.”