Maternal and Child Health

 The Maternal Child Health (MCH) Service is designed to give parents support, advice and information about child and family health issues and monitor growth, health, development and behaviour in children.

The Maternal Child Health (MCH) Service provides a comprehensive and focused approach to the promotion of physical, emotional and social health and wellbeing of families in the Mansfield community.

Enhanced home visiting is also available for parents and children with special needs or other issues.

MCH Nurses hold qualifications in general Nursing, Midwifery and Maternal and Child Health and Community Health.

There is no cost for these services and they are available to anyone with a child 0-6 years.

The MCH Centre is situated at 10 Davies Street, Mansfield.

For further information and to book an appointment, phone the MCH Nurse on (03) 5775 8537 or (03) 5775 8557  
Monday to Friday 8.30am - 4.30pm

The service provides information, support, advice and referral on:

  • Child health and development
  • Breastfeeding
  • Nutrition
  • Play and learning
  • Maternal/paternal health and wellbeing
  • Accident and injury prevention (including safe sleeping)
  • Home safety
  • Immunisation
  • Local support services and resources
  • Sleep and settling program
  • Family violence support 

Mansfield Shire Maternal and Child Health Initiatives

Expecting a baby? We're here to help you feel ready and supported.
Our free antenatal program brings together experienced local health professionals to guide you through pregnancy, birth, and early parenting — right here in Mansfield.
Delivered in partnership with Council's Maternal and Child Health Service, Mansfield District Hospital, Central General Practice, Mansfield Medical Centre, and Dad's Group, the program offers trusted, practical information you can rely on.

Across four weekly sessions, you'll explore:

  • Preparing for labour and birth
  • Pain relief options
  • Feeding your baby
  • Newborn care and early parenting
  • Emotional health and wellbeing
  • Involving your partner and family

You'll also have the chance to connect with other expecting parents in your community and build the confidence to welcome your new arrival.
When: Tuesdays, 6.00pm–8.00pm (4-week course - consecutive weeks)
Cost: Free
2026 program start dates:

Tuesday 25 August 2026
Tuesday 10 November 2026

Register now via the link: Humanitix - Mansfield Antenatal Classes
 

Nurses involve parents in assessing the development and wellbeing of their child using the Parents Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS) screening tool. At these visits nurses discuss the health and development of the child, physical and emotional effects on the family, parent health and wellbeing and any concerns families may have.

There are 10 key ages and stages consultations that coincide with the child’s milestones from birth to 3.5 years:

MCH 10 Key Visits Image.jpg

Mansfield Shire Council have partnered with Dads Group to deliver a range of programs and support for dads in our community. 

Further information, resources, support and upcoming events can be found on this website: Dads of Mansfield

Regular monthly workshops and digital Dads groups are available now. 

If you are interested in participating in face to face, peer led Dads groups please contact: Maternal Child Health on 5775 8537

We run a supported playgroup, which is a safe space for families to socialise and interact with children 0-6 years of ages. The sessions are structured and facilitated by a trained facilitator of the Smalltalk program. Go to our Supported Playgroup page to find out more. 

Public and Private Early Parenting Centres

Early parenting centres are a primary health service that provides specialist information for families with children aged 0-4 years. For information on these centres visit The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne or the Better Health website

 

Further information

Maternal Child Health Line

This telephone advice service is available throughout Victoria for the cost of a local call 24 hours a day and is staffed by Maternal and Child Health nurses:

Call 13 22 29

An interpreter service is available. The service is also available to deaf callers who have assess to a telephone typewriter (TTY). 

 

Maternal and Child Health app

The Maternal and Child Health app provides reliable information that Victorian families can use every day. See information relevant to your child's age and development, useful contacts, and task the 'Virtual Maternal and Child Health Nurse' questions - with reliable, evidence based replies you can trust.

The Maternal and Child Health App can be downloaded from the app store or Google Play.

 

Other useful support organisations

The Maternal and Child Health team recommends the following websites for more support and information:

Customer Satisfaction 

We are committed to providing the best possible service to families. 

Sometimes despite the very best efforts there may be an issue about service delivery that needs to be discussed. Parents are encouraged to discuss issues with your Maternal and Child Health nurse or call the Maternal and Child Health Coordinator on (03) 5775 8557.

Helpful Resources

Sleep and settling information for families

The first three months is often referred to as the fourth trimester as babies adapt to living outside the womb. We recognise that it takes time for parents and babies to adjust to this change.

Understanding sleep, sleep options, sleep environment

Safe sleeping, safe wrapping and tummy time

Safe sleeping for twins

Colic crying and unsettled babies

Sleep and Settling Resources

0-3 months

3-6 months

6-12 months

1-3 years

2-3 years

3-5 years

Apps

Men's health resources

Breastfeeding information for partners