That the ACT has recorded a declining rate in the number of parents opting not to vaccinate their children is a positive step in combating the damaging anti-vaxxer movement in the territory.
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New figures show the number of conscientious objectors in the nation has continued to fall, even before the federal government announced its "no jab no pay" policy in April.
It is unclear at this stage whether the new rules to cut family benefit payments will encourage a large majority of anti-vaxxers to immediately inoculate their children, but the threat would have converted some.
There is some strength behind the argument that only the poor will be targeted by such a campaign as a high proportion of conscientious objectors are well educated and financially comfortable.
While some parents who chose not to immunise their children claim the objector status on religious or medical reasons, it is still a huge concern the threat this decision has on society in general.
For others the decision not to vaccinate children comes from a mistaken belief it is dangerous.
Australia's Chief Scientist Ian Chubb expressed disappointment earlier this year that parents continued to give credibility to debunked theories about vaccination.
He said there was "overwhelming evidence to support vaccines as one of the most successful and cost-effective health interventions known to humanity".
Objectors have yet to demonstrate any solid reason that justifies placing the rest of the community at risk.
There are some, such as very small babies, who can't be vaccinated for medical reasons.
It is these innocent people who don't have a choice that are placed at greater risk of avoidable illness due to the unjustified stance taken by some.
It is both shameful and appalling that leading Republican Party candidate Donald Trump recently reignited the disproved autism/vaccination link in front of a televised audience of 23 million people.
While not all registered conscientious objectors object because of this myth, it is still a concern that the fears around vaccination prevent children from being protected from preventable deadly diseases.
The government should be congratulated for getting tough on the objectors through the new policy.
