Public Forum to Tackle Vaccine Hesitancy and Rebuilding Trust
As national immunisation rates decline, policymakers and health authorities are confronting the reality that evidence alone may not change people's minds. To address this complex public health issue, The University of Western Australia's Public Policy Institute will host a special public policy discussion.
The event will explore the behavioural, communication, and policy dynamics related to vaccine hesitancy, focusing on how to rebuild trust in public health institutions.
Event Details
- What: Public Policy Discussion on Vaccine Hesitancy
- When: Wednesday, 22 April, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
- Where: Great Southern Room, State Library of Western Australia, Northbridge
- Cost: Free (registration is required)
Featured Speakers
The evening will begin with a keynote address from Professor Stephan Lewandowsky, Chair of Cognitive Psychology at the University of Bristol.
This will be followed by a panel discussion featuring:
- Professor Katie Attwell, leader of the UWA VaxPol Lab.
- Professor Ullrich Ecker from the University of Western Australia.
The discussion will be moderated by Emily Roper, former Director General of the Department of Premier and Cabinet.
Key Discussion Topics
The forum will delve into several critical areas, including:
- How misinformation spreads and persists in society.
- The formation of public trust in vaccines and health advice.
- Evidence-based strategies for supporting vaccination and preventative health goals.
- Effective policy and communication strategies to counter hesitancy.
The discussion recognises vaccine hesitancy as a multifaceted public health issue involving communication, psychology, and trust in institutions.
Who Should Attend?
Policymakers, health professionals, researchers, and interested members of the public are all encouraged to attend this timely discussion.