Australia stands at a critical juncture in its immunisation trajectory. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of current immunisation coverage across a range of vaccine-preventable diseases, including human papillomavirus (HPV), and respiratory diseases such as RSV, influenza and COVID-19. Once a global leader in vaccine coverage, the nation is now seeing sustained declines across childhood, adolescent and adult programs, with serious implications for public health, health-system capacity, and economic productivity.

Declines in immunisation not only present an unnecessary risk to health but also result in a significant economic burden. The report analyses the financial impact of influenza on the workplace and demonstrates the substantial cost-saving potential of improved community vaccination and workplace initiatives, such as on-site immunisation sessions to enhance convenience. 

The evidence presented in the report demonstrates that falling vaccination rates are being driven by a complex interplay of vaccine hesitancy, fatigue, access barriers, inequities and fragmented data systems. Reversing these trends requires a coordinated, national response that strengthens data integrity, accelerates vaccine assessment and listing processes, invests in community-led engagement and modernises funding to support team-based preventive care – particularly in general practice, where trusted relationships remain central to vaccine confidence. 

Sustained, targeted action now is essential to protect Australians from vaccine-preventable diseases, strengthen health system resilience and ensure equitable, lifelong access to vaccination.

Key recommendations

• Enhancing data integrity in the Australian Immunisation Register.
• Developing a real-time, interactive immunisation dashboard.
• Partnering with communities and trusted champions to promote inclusive immunisation.
• Promoting team-based care.
• A modern Medicare to recognise the changing nature of general practice.