Some cancers are linked to viruses, such as human papillomavirus (HPV) or hepatitis B.[97] Therefore, immunisation is an important form of primary cancer prevention to reduce the risk of cancers. The Australian Government operates the National Immunisation Program (NIP),[111] which aims to increase national immunisation coverage to help reduce diseases that can be prevented by vaccination. Both HPV and hepatitis B vaccines are provided through the NIP.

As outlined in the National Preventive Health Strategy 2021–2030,[18] Australia is on track to be the first country in the world to eliminate cervical cancer (i.e. maintain an incidence rate of less than four per 100,000 women) as a result of the combination of the National Cervical Screening Program[102] and HPV vaccination.

This 5-year action builds on the success of existing national immunisation programs to:

• investigate and address barriers to immunisation access, including structural, financial and geographical barriers. Social, cultural, commercial and environmental determinants of health for all priority populations should also be considered
• increase access to and uptake of immunisation through tailored communication, promotion and care service delivery via Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services and community-led priority population groups.

Partnerships with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services and community-led priority population groups will help ensure immunisation programs and health service systems are culturally safe and inclusive.

Implementation would align with priorities identified in other national strategies, including:

• National Preventive Health Strategy 2021–2030[18] which aims to provide more balance to the health system by enhancing the focus on prevention and by building systems-based change over a 10-year period.
• National Women’s Health Strategy 2020–2030[112] to improve cancer screening and immunisation uptake among under-screened and under immunised female populations. These included Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people living in rural and remote areas, people in lower socioeconomic groups and LGBTIQA+ communities.
• Third National Hepatitis B Strategy 2018–2022[113] and Fifth National Hepatitis C Strategy 2018–2022,[114] recognising the risk factor associated with cancer due to liver disease, damage and inflammation from hepatitis.
• National Cervical Cancer Elimination Strategy[115]to achieve a future free from this preventable disease for all women and people with a cervix across the diverse communities we have in Australia.