Health journalChildren's health
Children's immunisations in NSW: a parent's guide
When children are due for their free vaccines under the National Immunisation Program, what to expect on the day, and how to keep their record up to date.
Keeping your child's immunisations up to date protects them from serious diseases, and helps protect babies and others in the community who are too young or unable to be vaccinated. Under the National Immunisation Program, routine childhood vaccines are free. At Rutherford Doctors, childhood immunisations and Medicare-eligible children's consultations are bulk billed for families across Rutherford, Aberglasslyn, Telarah and the wider Maitland area.
The NSW childhood immunisation schedule at a glance
- At birth
- 2 months (can be given from 6 weeks)
- 4 months
- 6 months
- 12 months
- 18 months
- 4 years
Some children, such as those with certain medical conditions and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, may be offered additional vaccines. Your GP will check what your child needs.
School vaccinations in NSW
Secondary school students in NSW are offered vaccines through the NSW school vaccination program. If your child misses a school vaccine, they can usually catch up with their GP.
Catch-up vaccinations
If your child has missed a vaccine, it is not too late. Your GP can create a catch-up plan, and many catch-up vaccines are free for children under the National Immunisation Program.
Keeping your child's immunisation record up to date
Every vaccine your child receives is recorded on the Australian Immunisation Register. You can view or download their immunisation history statement in your Medicare online account or the Express Plus Medicare app. Up-to-date records are needed for childcare and preschool enrolment in NSW and for some family assistance payments, under the No Jab No Pay requirements.
What to bring and what to expect
- Your child's Blue Book (Personal Health Record), if you have it
- Your Medicare card
- A favourite toy or comforter for younger children
After vaccination it is common for children to be a little unsettled, have a mild fever, or have redness or a sore spot where the needle went in. Your GP or nurse will explain what to expect and when to seek help.
Children's health at Rutherford Doctors
As well as immunisations, our GPs see children for everyday illnesses, growth and development checks, asthma, skin conditions and more. Book online through HotDoc or call (02) 4061 7981.
Frequently asked questions
Are childhood vaccines free?
Routine vaccines on the National Immunisation Program schedule are free. The consultation is bulk billed at Rutherford Doctors for Medicare-eligible children.
Can my child have vaccines if they have a cold?
A mild cold is usually not a reason to delay. If your child is unwell or has a fever, talk to your GP.
How do I get my child's immunisation history statement?
Download it from your Medicare online account or the Express Plus Medicare app.
Sources: National Immunisation Program; NSW Health; Services Australia.
This article is general health information written by the Rutherford Doctors team. It has not been written or reviewed by our GPs and is not a substitute for advice about your own health. Please book an appointment to discuss your situation. In an emergency, call 000.
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