Maternal & Child Health

Becoming a parent for the first time can be a challenging yet exciting time. To help first time parents get the support they need, the Maternal and Child Health Service runs 'first time parents groups'. These groups enable first time parents to meet together in a relaxed and supportive environment.

The groups are facilitated by Maternal and Child Health nurses and guest speakers who provide Early Years Programs who will be happy to answer any questions you may have during these sessions.

Ideally parents join the program when their baby is between one month and four months of age but we welcome all first time parents with a baby up to six months of age. First time parents who have a child over six months of age can talk with the Maternal and Child Health nurse about the possibility about joining an existing older age new parent group.

Fathers are encouraged to attend the First parent Groups and any of our Early Years Services.

Nurse on Call - 1300 60 60 24 - this telephone service provides immediate, expert health advice from a registered nurse, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Maternal & Child Health Line - 13 22 29 - qualified maternal and child health nurses provide information, support and advice to Victorian families with children from birth to school age (5 years old) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Poisons Information Centre - 13 11 26 - for 24 hour-a-day, 7 day a week advice on poisoning, suspected poisoning, and mistakes with medicine, bites and stings.

Parent Line - 13 22 89 - this telephone counselling service is available to parents and carers of children aged birth to 18 years throughout Victoria. They provide information and assistance on a wide range of issues, including those who are struggling with or finding the parenting role challenging. They cannot, however, provide you with legal or medical advice.

Prevention of Violence against Women 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 7328)