Pregnancy and birth

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Expecting a baby is an exciting time and there is a lot to think about and organise. Draw on the many support services and resources available in Boroondara.

Before the birth

Use this checklist to keep on top of prenatal priorities.

Go to your antenatal appointments.
Book a birthing class at your hospital or health service.
Breastfeeding is recommended for babies – check out classes and resources on the Australian Breastfeeding Association website.
Make sure you and your family are up-to-date with your vaccinations.
Use the Better Health Channel website to learn more about pregnancy, including its various stages and preparing for birth.
Visit Services Australia website to apply for payments and services and enrol your baby in Medicare.
Find an approved rear-facing child restraint on the Child car seats website. Find help to properly fit your child's restraint on the VicRoads website.
Look into childcare for your baby if you need it. Childcare places are in high demand in our area. You can use our Childcare page to see what services are nearby.
Learn about family violence. Women are at greater risk of experiencing violence from their partner during pregnancy, as well as up to one month after the birth. Find out more on our Family violence page.
Join the Boroondara Library Service to access books and online resources on pregnancy, parenting, health and learning. Go to our Membership page to join the library.
If you're expecting multiples, congratulations! Join Camberwell Multiple Birth Association, a club for parents and caregivers of twins and triplets.
Join a toy library to borrow toys appropriate for your growing child. Find a local branch on our Toy libraries page.
Explore the types and benefits of reusable nappies that are available for your baby on The Nappy Project website.

After the birth

What to expect when you bring your baby home.

Expect a call from the Boroondara Maternal and Child Health (MCH) service to organise your first visit (usually at your home). Subsequent 2-week, 4-week, 8-week and remaining 10 key age and stage visits will be at a MCH centre. MCH also provides breastfeeding support, sleep and settling outreach and much more. View a map of MCH locations and find out more our Maternal and Child Health page.
Parents of every newborn child in Victoria receive a copy of 'My Health, Learning and Development' book – known as 'the green book' – as a record of your child’s health, growth, development, immunisations and other milestones. Find out how to use your green book on the Better Health Victoria website.
First-time parents and carers receive a Baby Bundle from the Victorian Government with useful information and products to support the health, development and wellbeing of your baby. Find out more about this on the Better Health Victoria website.
Use our immunisation calculator tool to add your baby's scheduled vaccinations to your calendar.

Reliable resources and support

Use these trusted resources to support you through your new parenting experience.

Your MCH nurse will give advice on breastfeeding, sleeping and settling, parent's groups and your baby's developmental milestones at your recurring appointments. You can also make an appointment by emailing [email protected] or calling (03) 9278 4606.
Call the Victorian Government's MCH Line for free, confidential advice 24/7 from a qualified MCH nurse. Call 13 22 29.
Call Parentline for free counselling and advice for parents and carers of children from birth to 18 years old, 8 am to midnight, 7 days a week. Call 13 22 89.
Contact the National Breastfeeding Helpline 24/7 for help with overcoming common breastfeeding hurdles. Call 1800 686 268.
For up-to-date and clear health information on newborns, visit the Victorian Government's Better Health Channel website.
Find evidence-based information and advice for parents of newborns at the Raising Children website.
Download the MyBaby app for expert information on feeding and active play with your baby.
Boroondara Family Network offers practical and emotional support for parents with newborn babies and young children who need a helping hand.
Visit our Support for families page to view organisations that support families who live, work or study in Boroondara.