The Secondary School Immunisation Program offers free vaccines provided by the National Immunisation Program each year to students in Year 7 (HPV and Diphtheria/Tetanus/Whooping cough) and Year 10 (Meningococcal ACWY). If your child missed out on receiving their vaccinations at school this year, it is not too late to get vaccinated.
Free adolescent vaccines can be accessed at your local council immunisation service, GP or pharmacist immuniser. To see if your child is due for any vaccines, check your child’s immunisation history statement on the Australian Immunisation Register using your MyGov account. Children aged fourteen years of age and over can access their own immunisation history statement via MyGov.
For further information you can contact our local council immunisation provider Boroondara Council or visit the following websites:
Parents and carers play a crucial role in helping children stay safe online and on social media. You can support your children in navigating the digital world safely and educate them on how to avoid harmful online experiences. Exploring websites, games, apps, and social media together, while setting clear rules and boundaries can make a significant difference.
Your guidance can empower your children to make informed decisions online and give them the confidence to seek help when needed. It is also essential to stay informed about online safety.
The Department of Education recognises the importance of this issue and has developed fact sheets to help keep students safe online and provide guidance on handling online incidents. These fact sheets include links to evidence-based information on fostering positive and safe online experiences, signs that a child may need support, steps to take if something unsafe occurs online, and where to find additional assistance.
To access these fact sheets, visit the Safe Socials webpage. The fact sheets are available in nineteen community languages.
Additionally, the government is launching a public consultation on social media age limits. You and your children are invited to share your experiences through an online survey, open until 5.00 pm on Friday, 1 November 2024. For more information and to participate in the survey, visit the Proposed Changes to Social Media Age Limits webpage on the Engage Victoria website.
If you have any questions about this information, please contact the department via email at bullystoppers@education.vic.gov.au.
