When was your last tetanus shot? What about your flu jab? If you had to pull up your full immunisation history right now, could you?
Most people couldn’t, and that’s a problem! Your immunisation record isn’t just a list of jabs you’ve had. It’s a tool that can affect your travel plans, job opportunities, school enrolments, and even the safety of those around you.
Keeping it up to date makes life easier. Whether you're applying for a visa, starting a new job in healthcare or early education, enrolling your child in childcare, or simply trying to stay on top of your health, having accurate records saves time and stress.
World Immunisation Week is a timely reminder of just how much vaccines have transformed public health. It's also the perfect chance to check your own immunisation record, understand what's due next, and know exactly where to find that information when you need it.
We’re breaking it all down: how to get immunisation records, what’s on Australia’s immunisation schedule, and why keeping it all organised matters more than ever.
World Immunisation Week: A global health initiative
World Immunisation Week takes place every April and brings attention to one of the most effective public health measures we have: vaccines. It’s a global campaign led by the World Health Organisation to promote the use of vaccines for people of all ages, no matter where they live.
They protect not only the person getting the shot but also those who can’t be vaccinated due to age or health conditions. It’s collective protection in action.
Australia continues to play an active role in these efforts; from contributing to global vaccine research, to running public education campaigns, the focus remains on increasing accessibility and awareness, and supporting community health. Initiatives like the National Immunisation Program and partnerships with global health organisations show our ongoing commitment to making vaccination easier and more effective for everyone.
At HIF, we’re proud to support public health initiatives that encourage vaccination awareness and access. As part of our commitment to preventative healthcare, we offer benefits for flu vaccinations through our Extras Cover, making it easier for members to protect themselves and their communities. Our flu vaccination benefits, detailed here, help reduce the financial barriers to getting vaccinated, reinforcing the importance of proactive health measures. By supporting accessible immunisation, we’re helping to ensure more Australians can stay protected against preventable illnesses.
What is an immunisation record?
An immunisation record is a formal history of all the vaccines you’ve received. It includes details like the type of vaccine, the date it was given, the batch number, and who administered it. For children, this record starts from birth and continues through school years and beyond.
In Australia, most of this information is stored in the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR). It’s a national system that tracks vaccinations given to people of all ages. Whether you’ve had a routine childhood vaccine, a travel-related jab, or a COVID-19 booster, it’s likely recorded in the AIR.
Having access to your immunisation record matters. Parents need it for enrolling kids in childcare or school. Adults may need it for work, travel, or health reasons. It also helps doctors give accurate advice about booster shots or catch-up schedules. Being able to quickly access this record can save time, prevent unnecessary repeat vaccines, and make life admin a whole lot easier.
How to access your immunisation record in Australia
Accessing your immunisation history is straightforward, especially if you’re enrolled in Medicare. You can find your records through:
- your myGov account (linked to Medicare)
- the Express Plus Medicare app
- your Medicare Online account
These platforms connect directly to the Australian Immunisation Register, so you can view, download, or print your immunisation history whenever you need it.
If something’s missing or doesn’t look right, speak with your GP or vaccination provider. They can check their own records and update AIR if needed. It’s also worth knowing that vaccines given overseas might not show up automatically, so you’ll need to provide documentation for those to be added.
For parents, accessing this record is essential. Schools and childcare centres often require up-to-date immunisation history statements for enrolment. You can access your child’s records through your own myGov account, provided they are listed on your Medicare card. Keeping this information handy helps avoid enrolment delays and ensures your child stays on schedule with their vaccinations.
Why keeping your immunisation record updated is essential
An up-to-date immunisation record does more than tick a box. It can affect your ability to work, travel, study, or enrol your child in school or daycare. Certain jobs, especially in healthcare, education, and aged care require proof of specific vaccinations. Many countries also ask for vaccination records before issuing travel visas.
It also helps avoid repeat vaccinations. If your record is incomplete, you may be advised to get vaccines you’ve already had. A clear, current history ensures you’re only getting what you need, when you need it. That’s especially important for booster shots, which rely on good timing to be effective.
Beyond personal health, your record plays a role in something bigger: community immunity. When more people are protected, it reduces the spread of preventable diseases, especially to those who can’t be vaccinated. Keeping your record current is a simple but powerful way to support public health.
FAQs about your immunisation record
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about how to get immunisation records and more.
How do I get my immunisation history statement?
You can access your immunisation history statement by logging into your myGov account linked to Medicare. It’s also available in the Express Plus Medicare app. If you're not on Medicare, you can still contact the Australian Immunisation Register directly and request a copy.
What is the Australian Immunisation Register?
The Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) is a national system that records all vaccinations given in Australia. It tracks childhood vaccines, adult boosters, travel vaccinations, and any other immunisations administered by recognised providers.
Where can I get a vaccination record card?
In Australia, your official vaccination history is available through the Australian Immunisation Register. You can get a copy by logging into your myGov account linked to Medicare, using the Express Plus Medicare app, or asking your GP. Physical record cards aren't typically issued, but your immunisation history statement can be printed and used when proof of vaccination is needed.
How do I contact the Australian Immunisation Register?
You can call the AIR on 1800 653 809 or visit the Services Australia website. If you use myGov, you can also send an online enquiry through your account.
What is the meaning of World Immunisation Week?
World Immunisation Week is a global health campaign held every April to promote the importance of vaccines. It focuses on raising awareness about how immunisation protects people of all ages from preventable diseases. Led by the World Health Organisation, the week encourages communities to stay informed, get vaccinated, and support public health efforts across Australia and the world.
What vaccines did I get as a child in Australia?
Your childhood vaccines should be listed in your immunisation history statement if they were recorded under your Medicare number. You can check it through myGov, the Express Plus Medicare app, or by asking your GP to access your records.
What happens if I don't vaccinate my child in Australia?
Children who aren’t up to date with their immunisations may not be able to enrol in childcare or some schools. You could also lose access to certain family-related government payments.
Are travel vaccines covered by Medicare?
Most travel vaccines aren’t covered by Medicare. You’ll usually need to pay for them yourself, but some private health funds may offer partial rebates, so it’s worth checking with your provider.
The Bottom Line
Keeping your immunisation record up to date isn’t just about ticking boxes, it’s about making life smoother. Whether you’re enrolling your child in school, applying for work, planning overseas travel, or staying on top of your health, accurate records matter.
Knowing how to access your history, understanding the Australian Immunisation Register, and staying aware of schedules gives you control. It also helps protect the people around you, especially those who rely on others being vaccinated to stay safe.
World Immunisation Week is a great reminder to check your records, ask questions, and take action if anything’s missing. A few minutes now could save a lot of hassle later. For more resources like this, refer to our HIF Health Hub.
Please note: Kirsty's blog is general advice only. For further information on this topic please consult your healthcare professional.