About us

NCIRS is the leading research organisation in Australia that provides objective expert advice on all aspects of vaccine preventable diseases, and other issues related to immunisation, to inform policy and planning for immunisation services in Australia.

Research and surveillance activities include the surveillance of vaccine preventable diseases, monitoring of vaccination coverage, vaccination program evaluations, vaccine safety monitoring and social research. NCIRS also provides technical support for the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation, including production of The Australian Immunisation Handbook.

NCIRS brings together experts in public health, epidemiology, biostatistics, paediatrics, internal medicine, infectious diseases, epidemiology and quantitative and qualitative survey methods.  

The Centre also has a strong role in providing postgraduate training and supervision.

More information on the research conducted by NCIRS is available in Our work.

Our vision, purpose and values

Our vision is healthy people in Australia and beyond through immunisation. Our purpose is to lead and support collaborative research and to advance immunisation policy and practice.

Funding and governance

NCIRS activities are primarily funded by the Australian and New South Wales governments with supplementary funding from other sources.

Our history

NCIRS was established by the Australian Government Department of Health in August 1997 as part of the development of the Immunise Australia program and its ‘Seven Point Plan’.

Our collaborators

NCIRS works across government, clinical and academic sectors, providing a focal point for national collaboration.

Our people

NCIRS staff include experts and postgraduate students in public health, preventive medicine, paediatrics, internal medicine, infectious diseases, epidemiology, social sciences and laboratory science, providing NCIRS with a broad base of expertise.

Join our team

NCIRS offers career opportunities in a range of fields, including paediatrics, internal medicine, infectious diseases, policy support, epidemiology, disease surveillance, social sciences and corporate support. See the latest advertised roles here

Our Strategic Plan 2019–2023

Our Strategic Plan 2019–2023 outlines how we plan to build on our success and position as a cornerstone support for immunisation research, surveillance, policy and programs  in Australia.

NCIRS 25 Year Anniversary Showcase live stream

NCIRS celebrated its 25 year anniversary on 15 September 2022 with a day of inspiring presentations from Australian and international experts. Find out more here