Misinformation, anti-science sentiment and vaccine hesitancy is being blamed for a "worrying" drop in Australia's immunisation rates.
The Australian Medical Association is urging Australians to reverse the trend, warning lives are unnecessarily being put at risk and emergency departments are being stretched too thin.
Their latest report released on Monday - From coverage to concern: a policy analysis of Australia's immunisation decline - shows vaccination rates across child, adolescent and adult programs, as well as seasonal flu vaccination, have all dropped.
AMA president Danielle McMullen said immunisation prevents between two and three million deaths a year but misinformation and anti-science sentiment were eroding public trust.
"We are seeing increasing global conversations about vaccine hesitancy, and it is putting lives at risk," she said.
"Unfortunately, Australia is not immune, and it is deeply concerning to see declining rates here, especially among children."
Immunisation programs have dramatically decreased mortality from diseases worldwide.
Since childhood vaccinations were introduced into Australia in 1932, deaths from vaccine-preventable diseases have fallen by 99 per cent.
Yet coverage has slipped in recent years.
Immunisation coverage rates for two-year-olds currently sits at about 90 per cent, according to the data from the Australian Immunisation Register.
Coverage rates for one- and five-year-olds have also decreased to 91.63 per cent and 93.27 per cent.
The figures are below the government's 95 per cent aspirational target required to achieve herd immunity for highly infectious diseases.
Dr McMullen said declining vaccination rates are threatening public health and straining the healthcare system.
"Our hospitals are already in logjam, operating at or above capacity, and yet nearly 10 per cent of preventable admissions are linked to vaccine-preventable illnesses," she said.
"Declining coverage doesn't just strain our emergency departments - it risks the re‑emergence of serious diseases like measles, with life‑altering complications."
Dr McMullen said general practitioners are uniquely placed to reassure those unsure about vaccinations and can help turn the tide in rebuilding trust in vaccines.
"They are trusted voices in their communities and play a pivotal role in encouraging vaccination," she said.
"A simple conversation with your GP can protect your family, strengthen your community, and save lives."
