A BUNDLE OF FREE SUPPORT FOR NEW PARENTS AND CARERS

More than 220,000 Victorian families have received a free Baby Bundle, packed with essentials to help new parents and carers through the first few months – saving them more than $33 million since the program started.

Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas welcomes this Allan Labor Government initiative which supports Victorian families and carers.

Every first-time parent in Victoria is eligible for a free Baby Bundle which includes:
· A nappy bag
· Safe sleeping bag
· First aid kit
· Sun hat
· Grow suit
· Picture books
· Emergency contacts
· Parenting information

The Baby Bundle saves families up to $150 each.

Baby Bundles are provided in hospital at the time of birth or via local Maternal and Child Health providers – just one of the ways the Allan Labor Government supports new parents.

First-time foster and adoptive parents with babies up to three months are also eligible for a Baby Bundle.

Labor has also invested more than $168 million to expand and upgrade our network of Early Parenting Centres, including a dedicated Aboriginal-led centre in Frankston and new centres in Wyndham, Whittlesea, Casey, Bendigo, Ballarat, Geelong, Hastings, Shepparton and Northcote.

Families are also supported through the Maternal and Child Health Line, which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week to provide advice and support for families with children from birth to school age.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Children, Lizzie Blandthorn:
“Becoming a parent is one of life’s greatest joys but it’s also expensive – we know cost of living puts real pressure on new parents.”

“That’s why we’re giving every first-time parent or carer a free Baby Bundle, stocked with things they need.”

“We’ve supported more than 220,000 families so far and we’ll keep supporting Victorian families from day one.”

Quote attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas:
"Welcoming a new baby is one of life’s greatest joys and it’s a privilege to see so many families growing and thriving across Macedon.”

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