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Clinics & services

Parent infant mental health

Parent Infant Inpatient Program

We care for and treat parents with a mental illness and their infants up to 12 months of age.

About us

The Parent Infant Inpatient Program has 6 beds available within the Acute Psychiatric Unit. You will have your own room with a double bed and a separate cot or crib for your baby. Co-sleeping with your baby is not permitted on the unit.

We recognise the importance of fathers in their role as a primary carer and a supportive partner. 

You can be treated here if:

  • You have a mental illness
  • Your baby is 12 months of age or younger
  • You will be safe in an open ward
  • You live in our catchment area - Northern, North East & Hume regions of Victoria
  • You are not an active risk to your baby

Our services

We provide the following services:

  • Individual and holistic care based on attachment, psychodynamic and family therapy principles
  • A maternal child health nurse to assis with childcare and supportive education
  • Group programs to assist with attachment, parenting, child development and self-care
  • Individual sessions with psychologists, dance and art therapists 
  • Play therapy to help you to interact with your child

What to bring

Depending on the age and needs of your baby, you will need to bring:

  • Disposable nappies and baby wipes
  • Baby clothing
  • Baby medication, own medication (if any)
  • Pram and favourite toys (preference for hard toys due to infection control; soft toys should remain in your room)
  • Bottles, formula, breast pump, dummies, bottle brush
  • Your baby's Maternal and Child Health book
  • Medicare card
  • Any preferred lotions or creams for your baby
  • Your own bedding and pillows, if you prefer

Referrals

For clients

You can refer yourself or someone that you're concerned about to our Mental Health services.

Call our Mental Health triage service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for information, assessement and referral.

Phone 1300 859 789 

For health professionals

Please complete the referral form and email to pipreferrals@austin.org.au

Find out how to refer your patient to Mental Health.

Links and downloads

Contact us

Parent Infant Inpatient Program

Phone: 03 9496 6406 or 03 9496 6407

Email: pipreferrals@austin.org.au

Location

Acute Psychiatric Unit
Austin Hospital
145 Studley Road
Heidelberg VIC

View location map

Postal address

Parent Infant Inpatient Program
Austin Hospital
PO Box 5555
Heidelberg VIC 3084
Australia