Record keeping of staff vaccination status

[Denise McGrath]

I understand that in NSW, influenza and covid vaccination is not mandatory for staff. However, I believe it is a requirement or at least a strong recommendation that organisation’s keep a record of staff vaccination status including if they choose not to be vaccinated.
We offer free flu vaccination clinics and keep records of the staff who attend this but how are other places collecting data for staff who have their vaccination elsewhere or who choose not to be vaccinated? Thanks

[Carrie Spinks]

Hi Denise,

Just to confirm, staff Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines must be recorded by providers – rather than strongly recommended

See…………….

Responsibilities of residential aged care providers: https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/residential-aged-care/responsibilities-of-providers#mandatory-flu-vaccination-program

Flu and COVID-19 vaccination program
What you need to do:
Your service must take precautions to prevent and control the flu and COVID-19 and minimise infection-related risks. That includes:
-offering free flu vaccinations and COVID-19 vaccinations every year to your staff and volunteers, and keeping records of their vaccinations. From 1 November 2025, vaccinations must be provided in accordance with the The Australian Immunisation Handbook.

COVID-19 vaccination reporting is also addressed here:
COVID-19 vaccination for residential aged care workers: https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/covid-19-vaccines/information-for-aged-care-providers-workers-and-residents-about-covid-19-vaccines/residential-aged-care-workers

The Aged Care Act past and current requires these vaccinations to be recorded.

Regards Carrie

[Denise McGrath]

Hi Carrie

Are you able to provide some guidance on what the Australian Immunization handbook says about mandatory vaccination for aged care staff from 1st Nov. I am unfamiliar with this resources and can’t find what i need easily.

Thanks so much

Denise

[Carrie Spinks]

Hi Denise,

The Australian Immunization handbook does not comment on mandatory vaccination for aged care staff from 1st Nov. The handbook has a broader approach listing the immunisation recommended for health care workers. i.e.

All health care workers
Includes all workers and students directly involved in patient care or the handling of human tissue, blood or body fluids
-Hepatitis B
-Influenza
-MMR (if non-immune) **
-Pertussis (dTpa)
-Varicella (if non-immune)
-COVID-19 recommended only

Note: This information is recommended in aged care, but not mandated. State and Territory directions may apply – hence it is essential to seek appropriate directions for the location- i.e. NSW.

Regards Carrie

[Andryna M Eberle]

Hi ARC providers,
With the recent rise in measles cases in NZ and following a challenging influenza season, we’re currently reviewing our vaccination program for both residents and team members.

I was wondering if any you have a dedicated occupational health team managing this, or if it’s outsourced?

Do you maintain vaccination records for staff beyond FLU & COVID, and do you screen for Hepatitis B status —particularly for those in laundry and direct care roles?

Cheers
Andryna

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