Wake‑up call: rebuilding vaccine confidence

COVID‑19 precipitated the biggest decline in routine vaccine coverage globally and the lowest levels of trust in vaccines in more than a decade, largely driven by escalating misinformation and the erosion of confidence in public health. Vaccine‑preventable diseases such as measles, pertussis and polio have since increased in Australia and around the world, leaving millions at risk of poor health, disability or death.

This alarming decline in childhood vaccination rates has been described as a “wake‑up call” for the Australian Government and the health sector, with national rates falling year‑on‑year over the past five years.

So how do we increase vaccine uptake, combat mis‑ and disinformation in an increasingly polarised global landscape, and rebuild public trust—while prioritising vaccine equity and ensuring no one is left behind? Join Professor Margie Danchin as she explores these challenges and discusses the role of innovation, strong partnerships, co‑design, effective communication and community engagement.

Bio

Professor Margie Danchin is a paediatrician, vaccinologist and Dame Kate Campbell Fellow at the Royal Children’s Hospital, University of Melbourne and Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, and Associate Dean International for the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, UOM. She leads the Vaccine Uptake and Clinical Trials Group at MCRI, with research focused on improving child health and vaccine effectiveness, confidence and uptake in Australia, the Asia‑Pacific region and globally. She is a member of the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation, works closely with DFAT on regional immunisation support, and her research has influenced immunisation policy and practice in Australia and globally.

Event

Wednesday 13 May, 6:00 pm @The Duke of Wellington, 146 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Also speaking at this location at 8:00 pm is Professor Jason Trubiano

Please note:

  • Food and drinks available for purchase at the venue.

  • 18+ venue listing. All ages welcome; under‑18s must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.