The best way to protect your child from serious, preventable diseases is to give immunisations on time and in line with the recommended NSW Immunisation Schedule. 

This schedule ensures that your child is provided with the earliest protection. All immunisations on this schedule are free if your child is eligible for Medicare benefits.  

Evidence of your child’s immunisation status must be provided for enrolment in primary school. If your child missed any immunisations in early childhood, talk to your vaccination provider or doctor. They can provide a catch-up schedule based on your child’s age, previous vaccinations, and medical history. 

Influenza vaccine

It is recommended that your child is vaccinated against influenza, more commonly known as the flu, every year. Getting the flu vaccine each year protects your child from the types of flu expected to be the most common that season. 

See the Influenza factsheet more information.

Health checks

Regular health checks with your local doctor are still important in the primary school years to ensure that your child's health and development is on track. Each child develops at their own pace. However, you know your child best. If you have concerns about your child, speak to your local doctor. 

Concerns may include, but are not limited to:

• physical growth – overweight, underweight, overeating or undereating
• movement – difficulty coordinating movement or finding regular movement patterns challenging
• emotional development – are consistently unhappy, frustrated, angry, tired or anxious or alternatively have excessive and frequent mood swings
• cognitive skills and thinking ability – difficulty concentrating, following directions, solving simple problems, or following directions
• communication skills – difficulty with speaking, hearing, or writing
• social skills – difficulty with eye contact, empathy or engaging with other children.

Your doctor can assess your child, provide advice and education or refer your child to appropriate services or professionals. You should also see your doctor if your child is unwell, sick or injured. However, if your child is experiencing an emergency, immediately call Triple Zero (000).