A NEW specialist Aboriginal-led early parenting centre has opened in Frankston.
The Baluk Balert Barring Early Parenting Centre is a response to a “clear gap in Aboriginal-led family services in the region that focus on early years, where the First Nations population is projected to grow significantly, by 51 per cent in the five years to 2028,” a state government media release read.
“Baluk Balert Baring is the first centre of its kind in Australia combining traditional and modern health support for parents from the early days of pregnancy until their kids start school. It has support for men transitioning into parenthood, connections to community services like playgroups, and maternal child health services.”
The centre offers free specialist sleep, settling and feeding services. It was officially opened by Victorian children’s minister Lizzie Blandthorn last week.
“The centre provides a home away from home for new parents in the new purpose-built clinic on the Nepean Highway in Frankston, offering First Nations families the choice to access culturally safe early parenting supports.
Every family is unique, so the centre tailors care and support the needs of each family – increasing the confidence of parents and giving them strategies they can continue to use at home,” the state government said. “The Baluk Balert Barring Early Parenting Centre respects cultural practices and addresses the unique needs of parents, carers, children and local Aboriginal communities.”
First published in the Frankston Times – 18 March 2025