Children's Immunisations & Vaccinations
- Full NIP schedule
- Reported to Australian Immunisation Register
- Catch-up immunisation plans
- Children 12 & under bulk billed weekdays
- BRAVE Clinic for needle anxiety
About this Service
Immunisation is one of the most effective ways to protect children from serious, preventable diseases. Shire Family Medical provides childhood vaccinations aligned with the National Immunisation Program (NIP), administered by our GPs and nursing team in a supportive, family-friendly environment.
Whether it is your baby’s 6-week check and first immunisations, routine scheduled doses, or a catch-up plan for a child who has fallen behind, our team takes time to explain each vaccination, answer your questions, and make the experience as calm as possible for you and your child.
All immunisations are automatically reported to the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) so your child’s records stay current. You can access your child’s immunisation history via Medicare Online, the myGov app, or by contacting our reception team.
National Immunisation Program
The following schedule outlines the vaccines recommended under the National Immunisation Program for children in Australia. Your GP can advise on any vaccines that may apply to your child’s individual circumstances.
This schedule is a general guide. Individual circumstances may vary. Always confirm the specific vaccines due at your child’s appointment with your GP or our nursing team. For the most current NIP schedule, visit health.gov.au.
| Age | Vaccines |
|---|---|
| Birth | Hepatitis B Given in hospital at birth |
| 6 weeks | Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DTPa) Hepatitis B Polio (IPV) Hib Rotavirus Pneumococcal (13vPCV) |
| 4 months | DTPa Hepatitis B Polio (IPV) Hib Rotavirus Pneumococcal (13vPCV) |
| 6 months | DTPa Hepatitis B Polio (IPV) Hib Pneumococcal (13vPCV) |
| 12 months | Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Pneumococcal (13vPCV) Meningococcal ACWY |
| 18 months | DTPa Hib MMR & Varicella (MMRV) Hepatitis A |
| 4 years | DTPa Polio (IPV) MMR |
| Year 7 (~12–13) | HPV Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (dTpa booster) Meningococcal ACWY School-based program — check with your school. Can also be given at the clinic. |
Schedule current as at 2026. Vaccines and schedules are subject to change — always confirm with your GP or visit health.gov.au for the latest information.
Services Available
Beyond the standard NIP schedule, our team provides a range of additional immunisation services.
6-Week Baby Check & First Vaccines
Your baby's 6-week check includes a full developmental review alongside their first scheduled immunisations. Book a long appointment for this visit.
Catch-up Immunisation Plans
If your child has missed vaccines or has an incomplete immunisation history, your GP can assess what is outstanding and develop a catch-up plan aligned with the NIP schedule.
AIR Registration & Records
All vaccinations are directly reported to the Australian Immunisation Register. Records can be accessed via myGov, Medicare Online, or by contacting our reception team.
School Enrolment & Childcare Records
We can provide immunisation history statements and assist with documentation required for school or childcare enrolment.
Travel Vaccines for Children
Age-appropriate travel vaccinations for children travelling overseas. Your GP can advise on what is recommended based on your destination and your child's age.
Needle Anxiety Support
For children with significant needle anxiety, the BRAVE Clinic offers specialised support for blood test and needle phobia. Ask our reception team for guidance.
Preparing for the Visit
A little preparation helps the appointment go smoothly — especially for babies and young children.
- Your child's Blue Book (Personal Health Record)
- Medicare card
- Any previous vaccination records or AIR statement if available
- A comfort item for your child — a favourite toy or dummy
- A spare nappy and change of clothes for babies
- Questions written down beforehand
After the vaccination. It is normal for children to be unsettled, have a mild fever, or show redness at the injection site. Your GP or nurse will advise on what to expect and what to watch for. Paracetamol may be recommended — ask at your appointment.
Needle Anxiety
Needle anxiety is very common in children and is not something to dismiss or push through quickly. Our team takes a calm, patient approach to make vaccinations as comfortable as possible.
Strategies that can help include:
- Bringing a comfort item or favourite toy
- Staying calm yourself — children take cues from parents
- Using honest, age-appropriate language beforehand
- Distraction techniques during the injection
- Rewarding bravery after the appointment
For children with significant needle phobia, our BRAVE Clinic provides specialist support. Read our article on preparing children for vaccinations for practical strategies.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Please bring your child’s Blue Book (Personal Health Record) and Medicare card. If your child is receiving catch-up vaccinations, bring any vaccination records you may have. A comfort item for your child is also welcome.
Yes. We are registered with the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) and upload all childhood immunisations directly, so your child’s records stay up to date automatically after every visit.
You can access your child’s immunisation history via Medicare Online, the myGov app, or by requesting a copy from our reception team. This is the document commonly required for childcare and school enrolment.
Our doctors can assess your child’s vaccination history and create a catch-up plan in line with the National Immunisation Program. It is never too late to catch up on missed vaccines — please book an appointment to discuss.
Yes. This appointment includes a full baby check and the first set of scheduled vaccinations. We recommend booking a long appointment so your GP has adequate time to cover the developmental review and answer your questions.
Children aged 12 and under are bulk billed on weekday appointments at Shire Family Medical. On Saturdays, only children aged 5 and under are bulk billed. See our Fees page for full details.
Needle anxiety is common and our team is experienced in managing it with patience and care. Bringing a comfort item, using distraction during the injection, and staying calm yourself all help. For children with significant needle phobia, the BRAVE Clinic at Shire Family Medical provides specialist support — please speak with our reception team.
Mild reactions such as redness or swelling at the injection site, low-grade fever, or unsettled behaviour are common and usually resolve within a day or two. Your GP or nurse will advise what to expect at your appointment. Paracetamol may be appropriate — ask when you attend. If your child develops a high fever, unusual swelling, difficulty breathing, or you are concerned, seek medical attention promptly.
Book Your Child's Immunisation Appointment
On-site vaccinations in a calm, family-friendly environment. Book online or call our reception team.
Health Articles
Raising children comes with a lot of questions. These articles cover the topics parents ask our GPs about most.
Needle Phobia in Children: How to Help Before, During and After Vaccinations
Trypanophobia (needle phobia) is common in children. Practical, GP-backed strategies from a Sutherland GP for calmer vaccination visits.
What Is a 715 Health Check?
A GP guide to the free 715 Health Check for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people: who it's for, what it covers, and what happens…
When Should You Take Your Child to the GP for a Fever or Cough?
A fever in a child is 38°C or higher. Know the warning signs for fever and cough that need a GP, and how to care for a sick child at home.