Maternal and Child Health
The arrival of a new baby in a family brings many challenges, new experiences and changes to your lifestyle.
The Maternal and Child Health Service, a free universal service for Victorian families with children from birth to school age, aims to promote healthy outcomes for all children and families.
The service is provided in partnership with the Municipal Association of Victoria, local government and the Department, and centres are staffed by registered nurses with additional qualifications in midwifery and family and child health. They offer support, information, opportunities to discuss your concerns with a health professional, and chances to meet other parents of young children.
Through its schedule of contacts and activities for families, the Maternal and Child Health Service has an emphasis on prevention, promotion, early detection and intervention for health and wellbeing.
It also aims to:
- bring families together to foster social networks, support playgroups and strengthen local community connections
- deliver family support services such as immunisation and volunteer programs; and
- help to identify children and families who require further assessment, intervention referral and /or support.
Additional support is available through the Enhanced Maternal and Child Health service, which is available to respond to children and families at risk of poor outcomes.
Aboriginal mothers and their children can also receive in-home support during the crucial early years under a program that emphasises respect for cultural identity.
Telephone support is available for parents and families though the 24 hour Maternal and Child Health Line , call: 13 22 29.
For more information, see:
- Maternal and Child Health Overview – for obtaining support for parenting, child health, development and behaviour, and maternal health and well-being
- Maternal and Child Health – Frequently Asked Questions – finding your local service, after hours advice, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander support
- Maternal and Child Health – Centre Directory - comprehensive list of Maternal and Child Health centres across Victoria
- In Home Support for Aboriginal Families – outlines a four year $5.8 million Victorian Government project to enhance parenting skills in Aboriginal families
- Early Parenting Centres – to get intensive support to improve parenting skills and confidence
- Child Health Record - child health information for parents and professionals
- Maternal and Child Health Service Fact Sheet