New SKAI resource supports provider–parent conversations about HPV vaccination as school immunisation programs commence

Sharing Knowledge About Immunisation (SKAI) has released a new practical resource to guide healthcare professionals through respectful conversations with parents about human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination.

HPV vaccination coverage among Australian adolescents has continued to decline since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the greatest drops occurring between 2023 and 2024 – falling to 81.1% in girls and 77.9% in boys in 2024.

Parents and carers may sometimes feel uncertain or uncomfortable addressing sensitive topics related to adolescent sexual health, and immunisation providers play a crucial role in helping families understand the purpose and benefits of HPV vaccination. 

Developed as part of the evidence-based SKAI communication suite, the Talking with parents about human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination conversation guide is designed to help providers engage in confident, respectful and supportive conversations with parents and carers who have questions or concerns about adolescent HPV vaccination, including when sensitive topics arise.

The launch of the conversation guide comes as 2026 school-based vaccination programs – offering free HPV, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis and meningococcal vaccines for Year 7 and 10 students – commence across Australia.
 

What the conversation guide covers

The guide offers practical advice on: 

• initiating and navigating conversations about HPV vaccination
• responding to common questions and concerns
• discussing HPV and adolescent sexual health sensitively and respectfully
• delivering key messages about HPV disease and vaccination benefits
• building trust and rapport with families
• supporting discussions with parents and carers who are hesitant or unsure. 

This new resource aims to equip providers with empathetic, practical communication strategies, to support positive conversations with parents and carers, reduce barriers to HPV vaccination uptake and help improve coverage among adolescents.

It offers timely support for those working in general practice, community health and school-based programs, and can be used alongside culturally tailored approaches to meet the needs of diverse communities.

Access the conversation guide