The Australian Childhood Immunisation Register-A model for universal immunisation registers?

The Australian Childhood Immunisation Register (ACIR) was established in 1996 as an opt-out register built on the platform of Medicare- the universal national health insurance scheme. Introduction of financial incentives for providers and parents- linked to the ACIR- followed from 1998. Over the subsequent decade- national levels for receipt of all vaccines by 12- 24 and 72 months of age have risen to 91%- 93%- and 88%- respectively. Conscientious objection to immunisation can be registered- with retention of eligibility for incentives. The ACIR has been important in implementation of a range of measures to improve childhood immunisation coverage in Australia. Linkage of a universal childhood immunisation register to national health insurance schemes has potential applicability in a variety of settings internationally.