Active surveillance 

AusVaxSafety is an active vaccine safety surveillance system that monitors the safety of vaccines in Australia. Using de-identified data reported directly from people receiving the vaccines (or their parent or carer), AusVaxSafety monitors adverse events following immunisation and facilitates early detection of potential vaccine safety issues.

In the days following vaccination, responses are solicited via an automated SMS or email sent using AusVaxSafety surveillance tools (SmartVax or Vaxtracker). These surveillance tools have been implemented in 600 sentinel sites across Australia, including general practices, pharmacies, hospitals, schools, community clinics and Aboriginal Medical Services. AusVaxSafety is currently expanding to include more sites that will deliver COVID-19 vaccinations. GPs currently participating in active surveillance using SmartVax can be found here.

 


Analysis of de-identified responses occurs frequently and is reviewed by vaccine experts as well as the Australian Government of Health and Aged Care, including the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Key National Immunisation Program (NIP) vaccine safety results are also available under the safety data section of this website. COVID-19 vaccine safety surveillance results will be available on the TGA website.

AusVaxSafety has also completed detailed vaccine safety analyses of all National Immunisation Program (NIP) vaccines. The Vaccine safety in Australia AusVaxSafety summary report 2022 shows how parents and carers responded to an SMS about their child's health a few days after their vaccination at each schedule point in the NIP.​

Access the latest vaccine safety data here

Last updated March 2024