The Early Parenting Centre program has involved the construction of seven new centres around Victoria to radically improve the provision of services in this important area of health provision. The designs were supported with a new service plan and brief that evolved out of consultation with experts in the field. The primary aim of the EPC program is to support healthy child development, via inpatient and outpatient programs in parenting skills. Via the delivery of the new Early Parenting Centres, the new program will lead to close to 100 residential suites around the state and enough day stay capacity to meet demand.

The project consists of two buildings per site – the Front of House building which includes consulting suites, day stay facilities, multi-purpose room and staff and administration areas, and the Inpatient Building, consisting of 10 residential suites, resident kitchen and dining area, playroom, nurse station and associated staff areas. Key design principles include a welcoming and comforting environment with emphasis on providing a domestic, non-institutional setting. The recognition of indigenous culture was fundamental in providing a sense of safety for Aboriginal families. Materials were inspired by nature with colour palettes reflecting local landscapes and contributing to the home-like feel.

Photography: Blue Tree Studios