June 9th, 2026CARE THAT KEEPS MORE MUMS AND BUBS TOGETHER
The state government is providing an $8.1 million boost to maternity hospitals across Victoria.
The investment is all about helping babies with additional care needs to stay with their mums in post-natal wards.
The period immediately after birth is one of the most critical times for both mother and baby.
Some newborns require closer observation and clinical care, which can require admission to special care nurseries.
Through the expansion of the Neonatal Postnatal Support Nurse pilot program, these nurses work with midwives and focus on caring for newborns who may need treatment, like antibiotics to treat infection or light therapy for jaundice.
By avoiding special care nursery admission, it helps keep mums and bubs together in those precious first moments.
The hospitals already running this program have reported positive results, like fewer hospital readmissions of neonates, and fewer complications like hypothermia and hypoglycaemia.
Expanding the Neonatal Postnatal Support Nurse Program
The investment boosts the program across the state and doubles its workforce from 32 to 65 nurses.
The program currently operates at Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s Hospital, University Hospital Geelong and Werribee Mercy Hospital.
It will now be expanded to three additional hospitals:
- Royal Women’s Hospital
- Mercy Hospital for Women (Heidelberg)
- Monash Medical Centre (Clayton)
Funding will also be extended to continue the program at the three original pilot sites, for continuity of care.
These are the six hospitals in Victoria that deal with the most complex maternity cases.
Building a stronger workforce
The program also strengthens Victoria’s long-term maternity workforce.
By working alongside midwives, registered nurses gain hands-on experience in newborn care and exposure to the profession of midwifery – actively encouraging more nurses to go on to study as midwives.
Like every Australian state or territory, Victoria needs more midwives, and this program is a direct pathway to growing that workforce sustainably.
