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Having a baby can be both exciting and overwhelming. Friends and family can offer a lot of advice, but most new parents will also need some outside support. Here are some trusted links to help you navigate the many services in Australia available to you.

How to find trusted advice

There is a lot of advice available for new parents. Often, well-meaning family and friends will tell you that what you’re feeling is normal. But you know if you need help.

If you don’t know what to do or you just don’t feel right, you should seek support. There is no need to feel ashamed or embarrassed.

Parents who often need extra support include very young parents, first-time parents, single parents, or parents whose families are far away. There are plenty of places where you can find advice, support and companionship in these circumstances.

The internet is a good place to find information. However, make sure you only follow advice that is based on evidence or expert opinion and is written by a credible organisation (like a university, government department or health institution). Advice on the internet is no substitute for advice from a healthcare professional.

Some trusted sources you can go to for advice and support include:

• Your GP or healthcare provider.
• Your local maternal and child health clinic: The services clinics provide vary from state to state, but they will generally offer free check-ups, specialist services and support. Your GP, library or state health department will advise you on how to find your local clinic.
• A mothers’ group: You may be assigned to a mothers' group by your hospital, through your antenatal classes or by the maternal and child health clinic. Or you can find a local support group through the Australian Breastfeeding Association.

Who can I call for information and advice?

National helplines for parenting and family information and support in Australia.

Visiting a website or calling a phone line

ºÚÁÏ³Ô¹Ï and parenting information and support

• ºÚÁϳԹÏ, Birth and Baby: 1800 882 436 (free call), 7 days, and video call.
• : National Breastfeeding Helpline: 1800 MUM 2 MUM (or 1800 686 268), 24 hours / 7 days. Australia’s leading authority on breastfeeding.
• : 1300 308 307, 24 hours / 7 days. Infant loss and grief support
• : 1300 622 243, 24 hours / 7 days. Family support helpline for premature and sick babies.
• : 1300 227 464. Education and support.
• : 1300 272 736 (1300 2Parent), 7 days, From 7am.

Mental health and relationship advice and support

• : 1300 726 306, Mon to Fri, 9am - 7:30pm AEST. Support for post and antenatal depression and anxiety.
• : 1300 24 23 22 (Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 4.30pm). Mental health support for expecting and new parents.
• : online and telehealth perinatal depression and anxiety support — 1300 851 758
• : 13 11 14, 24 hours / 7 days. Crisis support and suicide prevention.
• : 1300 78 99 78, 24 hours / 7 days. Telephone and online support for men.
• : 1300 364 277. Relationship support services.

State and territory parenting lines

• : (02) 6287 3833, 9am - 5pm AEST.
• : 1300 1300 52, Mon to Fri, 9am - 9pm / weekends, 4pm - 9pm.
• : 1300 30 1300, 7 days, 8am - 10pm.
• : 1300 364 100, 7 days, 7.15am - 9.15pm.
• : 1300 808 178, 24 hours / 7 days.
• : 13 22 89, 7 days, 8am - 12am.
• : (08) 9368 9368 (metro) or 1800 111 546 (Regional), 7 days, 8am - 8pm.

Speak to a maternal child health nurse

Call ºÚÁϳԹÏ, Birth and Baby to speak to a maternal child health nurse on 1800 882 436 or video call. Available 7am to midnight (AET), 7 days a week.