In the news this week the Federal Australian Government announced its ‘No jab, no pay' policy.

It means Australian parents who refuse to vaccinate their kids won't get taxpayer-funded childcare or welfare benefits.

But is this taking away parents' civil liberties to decide whether to vaccinate their children or not?

One would argue some wouldn't have a ‘choice' because they can't afford to opt not to receive the childcare or welfare payments.

But then others – such as the Aussie taxpayer – say if parents don't vaccinate their kids and they do get sick why should the taxpayer pick up the bill for their healthcare to make the child well again?

Maybe parents who opt not to vaccinate should foot the health bills if their child gets sick from not being immunised. But then again some would not be able to afford the healthcare involved. Again, this eliminates their ‘choice' on whether to vaccinate wouldn't you say?

It's a thin line teetering on the stamping out of civil liberty – luckily our Government has said it will not follow suit.

Our Government opted against a similar measure in 2012 because it believed immunisation should be parents' choice.

And Health Minster Jonathan Coleman has said this week the Government doesn't think this decision is needed here, over the ditch.

Let the Australians got to court over the debate I say.

K Morland, Katikati.