The Department of Paediatrics is made up of experienced, dedicated and supportive staff including paediatricians, paediatric registrars, paediatric neurologists, neurology registrars, surgical registrars, residents, dietitians, psychiatrists, teachers, neuropsychologists and nursing staff.
If your child needs to stay overnight in hospital, they will stay in Ward 2 West. Our ward is colourful and friendly. We have a playroom full of games, toys and books, as well as a children's garden.
Our schoolteacher is happy to provide bedside schooling activities. She is also more than happy to liase with your child’s own school teachers. Speak to us if you are interested in enrolling your child in the Austin School.
Parents are encouraged to stay with their child to minimise emotional stress. We do, however, completely understand that this is not always possible.
We have space one parent to stay overnight. An armchair beside each patient bed can convert into an overnight bed. If you are unable to stay with your child, a grandparent, uncle, aunt or sibling over 18 years of age may do so.
Our nurses are here to provide total care for your child. We encourage you to assist in this care, but it is important to us that you have regular breaks and take time to care for yourself.
We provide the following services and facilities:
We run the following clinics:
Your child’s meals will be provided. Meals will also be provided for mothers of breastfed babies. Menus are available and our dietitian is also available to assist if required.
Doctors’ rounds may start as early as 8.30am. During this time the doctor will review the child. If you would like to speak to the doctor this is a good time. If you have been unable to speak to the doctor, please alert nursing staff.
Parents and children are discouraged from bringing in valuables, as staff cannot be held responsible for any lost or stolen items.
At Austin Health, we believe all children and young people have the right to feel safe and be always kept safe.
We have zero tolerance for any form of child abuse and commit to protect children from all forms of physical and emotional violence, injury or abuse, neglect, maltreatment or exploitation, including sexual abuse.
Nurse Phoebe has some advice on what you can do, and who you can speak to, if you're feeling unsafe.
You need a referral from your GP, specialist or health care provider to access this service.
Find out how to refer your patient.
For urgent referrals, call Switchboard on 03 9496 5000 and ask for the Paediatrics Registrar.
Jenny Spiller
Nurse Unit Manager
Phone: 03 9496 5516
Fax: 03 9496 5386
Email: jenny.spiller@austin.org.au
Phone: 03 9496 5943
Karen Stewart
Email: karen.stewart@austin.org.au
Laura Shanahan
Email: laura.shanahan@austin.org.au
Emily Francis
Email: emily.francis@austin.org.au
Rachel Wilkinson
Email: rachel.wilknson@austin.org.au
Open hours: Monday to Friday 7.30am to 4pm
Dr Catriona Fleming
Director, Paediatrics
Ward 2 West
Level 2, Austin Tower
145 Studley Road
Heidelberg VIC
Department of Paediatrics
Austin Hospital
PO Box 5555
Heidelberg VIC 3084
Australia