Support for new Mater parents grows across Queensland

Mater Mothers’ Parenting Support Centre has long been established in South East Queensland, providing care and guidance to families and babies for up to six months after their birth.

Now, we’re thrilled to extend our care and support to growing families in Central and North Queensland—offering parenting support services to Mater families in Mackay, Rockhampton and Townsville.

The service sees hundreds of families each year and now, through telehealth appointments, Central and North Queensland families will have access to extra care from the comfort of their own home.

Manager of Parent Education and Support Services, Kathleen Goldsmith, said this initiative has been in the works for some time and she is excited about the state-wide launch.

“We know mothers in regional cities have been looking for more resources to support them postnatally,” Kathleen said.

“Our community is hungry for information and ensuring they’re finding the right kind of information and getting that extra support at home, are all vital in helping new families adjust to parenthood, breastfeeding, caring for their new baby, and bonding together as a family.”

Mater Mothers’ Parenting Support Centre takes a multidisciplinary approach, with an experienced team of GPs, child health nurses, lactation consultants, and allied health clinicians available to support families through their parenting journey.

“Many women we see at the centre are here because they might need some help with breastfeeding, or their little one isn’t settling or sleeping all that well,” said Kathleen.

“We also take the time to make sure that mum’s emotional wellbeing is healthy—it can be a big change welcoming a new baby into your life, so ensuring both mums and dads are adjusting to their new role as a parent is so important.

“At the end of the day, we want to empower Mater families so that they feel capable and confident.”

Families and women with babies born at Mater Mothers’ Hospitals across Queensland may access the service at no out of pocket expense.

Looking for more information? Find out about the services available or call our team on 07 3163 2299 to make a booking.