Hi, I’m Kat Theophanous - the Labor Member of Parliament for Northcote in the Victorian Legislative Assembly.
Hi, I’m Kat Theophanous - the Labor Member of Parliament for Northcote in the Victorian Legislative Assembly.
The early years of parenting are full of love - but they can also be tough. When sleep is scarce, confidence is shaken, or things just feel overwhelming, having expert support nearby can make all the difference.
That’s why I’m so proud to share that we’ve now secured the site and the funding to build a brand new Early Parenting Centre – right here in Northcote.
It will be the first time families in the inner north can access this free specialist service locally – without having to travel across Melbourne, suffer long waitlists or pay costly private fees.
Early Parenting Centres support families with children from birth to four years, offering:
Multi-night residential stays and day programs
Help with sleep, settling, feeding and bonding
Support with child development, behaviour and mental health
Specialised care for babies and toddlers with additional needs
Building parenting skills under expert guidance
These services are delivered by highly qualified maternal and child health nurses, early parenting practitioners, and allied health professionals.
They’re all about helping families through the tough days. And importantly – they are free.
Our EPC will be located at the end of Green Street in Northcote, transforming a rundown site into a warm, welcoming, home-like space for families.
Early designs already reflect a nurturing environment – complete with ten private family rooms, including ensuites and adjoining child rooms, as well as spaces for group activities, consultation rooms, outdoor play areas and on-site parking.
Planning is now underway, led by the Victorian Health Building Authority in partnership with Brand Architects, to finalise the design. Community engagement will be part of the process to ensure the centre meets our needs with care and thoughtfulness.
This is a big win for our community – and I want to thank all the advocates and families who helped make it happen by sharing their experiences with me.
As a local mum, I know how much this will mean for families in our area. Parenting isn’t always smooth sailing – in fact it can be incredibly disorienting and isolating.
That’s why having great local services matters.
Because every child deserves the best possible start.
Every family deserves a village.
And this is part of building one, right here in Northcote.