By Cam Lucadou-Wells
The State Government has pledged $9 million to upgrade the parental Queen Elizabeth Centre in Noble Park.
The centre would become one of seven sleep schools and early parenting centres in Victoria.
It would provide day stays, longer residential stays and at-home support to give intensive help to help babies with sleeping, feeding and additional needs.
One in two families report problems with their baby’s sleep, leading to post-natal depression, isolation and stress for parents, the Government says.
A revamped 24-hour help line for sleep and settling issues will also be available.
Visting the centre on 19 November, Premier Daniel Andrews said he and wife Catherine “know how precious and scary those first few months can be”.
“A reassuring voice in the middle of the night – when your baby just won’t sleep – will make a real difference.”
Families and Children Minister Jenny Mikakos said the support would help parents “in the moments they need it most”.
The announcement comes a week after The Greens promised a $2.5 million upgrade for Queen Elizabeth Centre, including its health digital system.
At the time, chief executive Sue White said the QEC was not meeting “best practice standards” due to its age.
“Built 25 years ago, QEC’s facility in Noble Park does not currently meet best practice standards for health care, staff safety or family support.”
