Children moving from overseas

Immunisation for children moving to Australia

If you move to Australia from overseas you need to ensure your child's previous immunisations are recorded on the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR).

When you arrive in Australia, take all documents about your child's overseas immunisations to your doctor or immunisation provider who will create or update your child's record on AIR, and let you know if your child needs additional immunisations to be fully protected under the National Immunisation Program Schedule (external site).

If translation or support services are needed:

1. it is recommended to ask your doctor or immunisation provider, and they will liaise with the local WA Health Public Health Unit for document translation, or
2. apply for the document translating service for Australian citizens and immigrants at the Department of Home Affairs (external site).

Remember

• If you are moving to Australia, bring your child’s immunisation records with you. Ask your doctor or immunisation provider to record previous immunisations on to the AIR.
• Child care centres and schools will ask you to provide immunisation records in the form of an Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) History Statement to meet enrolment requirements. See Starting or moving schools.
• Only fully immunised children with an 'up to date' AIR record are eligible for child care subsidy (external site) and family tax benefit (external site). View the childhood immunisation schedule.

More information

Visit the Department of Human Services (external site) or phone the AIR on 1800 653 809.

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This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.