The AVN – Australian Vaccination-risks Network Inc. exists to further a pro-choice position with regard to vaccination and other health decisions. Vaccination is often a contentious and emotionally heated issue. We all want to do the best for our children and to maximise their level of health; we all want to contribute to a healthier community, but the choice to vaccinate is often made without access to all of the facts.
The AVN was started in 1994 by a group of parents and health professionals who were concerned about the lack of scientifically-based information on the ‘other side’ of the vaccination issue. It was felt that the medical community tended to exaggerate the safety and benefit profiles of vaccinations whilst downplaying their risks and true effectiveness.
For that reason, our group was formed with the express purpose of:
- promoting discussion about medically-referenced information on vaccine safety and effectiveness;
- lobbying to ensure that vaccinations are never made compulsory for Australian children; and
- supporting those who have chosen not to vaccinate or to vaccinate selectively.
