Parents in NSW are now required to provide evidence of their child's vaccination, or an approved exemption, after consultation with their immunisation provider, at the time of enrolling their children in childcare.
While similar requirements have always been in place, the difference is that centre operators now faced fines of up to $4,000 if inspectors found children in their care who did not have proof of vaccination.
"Previously, early childhood education and care services have only been required to request that parents and guardians provide an Immunisation History Statement and keep a register of that information," according to a spokesperson for NSW Health.
"However, children could still be enrolled if the information was not provided. This loophole has now been closed and children won't be enrolled unless the required documentation is provided."
Changes made to the Public Health Act 2010 had massively strengthened vaccination requirements for children enrolling in childcare in NSW.
Under the changes, early childhood education and care services cannot enrol a child unless the parent or guardian has provided documentation that shows the child is fully vaccinated for their age, or has a medical reason not to be vaccinated, has a parent or guardian who has a conscientious objection to vaccination or is a child on a recognised catch-up schedule.
According to health experts, at least 95% coverage is required for effective disease management and control.
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NSW Health’s immunisation schedule is available here.
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