Taking care of your newborn

When

Shortly after birth.

What it's for

To protect against hepatitis B, a virus that causes serious liver disease.

Number of doses

• Dose 1 – birth  
• Dose 2 – 6-8 weeks  
• Dose 3 – 4 months  
• Dose 4 – 6 months  
• Additional dose at 12 months for babies less than 2,000g at birth is recommended but will incur out of pocket costs. 

When

Shortly after birth. 

What it's for

To help prevent rare but serious bleeding by supporting normal blood clotting.

Number of doses

1 x injection (most effective) or 3x spaced oral doses (less effective).

When

Shortly after birth.

What it's for

Passive protection against RSV if the baby's mother is not vaccinated while pregnant or baby has risk factors for severe disease (even if baby's mother was vaccinated).

Number of doses

• Dose 1 – birth.
• Catch up doses are provided at GP, specialist or council services.

When

From 6 weeks.

What it's for

To protect your baby from 6 serious diseases. 

Number of doses

• Dose 1 – from 6 weeks.
• Dose 2 – 4 months.
• Dose 3 – 6 months.

When

From 6 weeks.

What it's for

To help protect against a bacterial infection called pneumococcal.

Number of doses

• Dose 1 – from 6 weeks.
• Dose 2 – 4 months.
• Dose 3 – 12 months.

When

From 6 weeks.

What it's for

Protects babies from a highly contagious virus that can cause serious diarrhoea.

Number of doses

• Dose 1 – from 6 weeks.
• Dose 2 – 4 months.

When

From 6 weeks .

What it's for

Protects against a serious bacterial infection that can cause meningitis and sepsis.

Meningococcal B vaccine is not routinely funded for all children in Victoria but parents can choose to access it privately. Speak with your GP or immunisation provider about this vaccine for your child 

Number of doses

• Dose 1 – from 6 weeks.
• Dose 2 – 4 months.
• Dose 3 – 12 months.

Every newborn baby in Australia is offered a newborn screening test to check for rare but serious medical conditions. The conditions tested for include:  

• phenylketonuria (PKU)  
• hypothyroidism  
• cystic fibrosis  
• congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH).

Usually, a blood sample is taken from a heel prick between 36 and 72 hours after the baby is born. This can happen in the hospital or at home.  
  
The test is safe and will not harm your baby. The heel prick may cause brief discomfort to your baby but holding or feeding them while the sample is collected may help.  

Learn more

Newborn bloodspot screening | Better Health Channel 

Newborn bloodspot screening | VCGS  

The Victorian Infant Hearing Screening Program (VIHSP) offers a hearing screening test to newborn babies in their first weeks of life. The screening test helps identify babies who may have hearing loss so they can receive further assessment and support as early as possible. Early detection and intervention can improve outcomes for babies with hearing loss.  

The hearing screen is performed by a trained hearing screener using specialised equipment. It is usually completed while your baby is asleep, either in hospital or at a follow-up outpatient appointment.  

Most babies complete the screening without requiring any further testing. If your baby is referred for additional assessment, it does not necessarily mean they have hearing loss. Some babies need further testing to confirm the result. If further assessment is needed, support is available to help guide you through the process.  

Learn more

Victorian Infant Hearing Screening Program : About the Victorian Infant Hearing Screening Program | VIHSP  

Infant hearing screening | health.vic.gov.au  

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a condition where a baby's hip joint does not develop normally and may be unstable or prone to dislocation. DDH is relatively common and is often successfully treated when identified early.  

All babies have their hips checked after birth and during routine health assessments. Some babies have a higher chance of developing DDH and a hip ultrasound may be recommended if there are risk factors or concerns during the examination.  

Your baby may be referred for a hip ultrasound if:  

• there is a family history of DDH (one or more first-degree relative or two or more second-degree relatives)  
• they were in a breech presentation in late pregnancy or at birth
• you had low amniotic fluid volume in pregnancy   
• your baby is born large for gestational age, particularly if they are a female
• your baby has an abnormal hip examination.

Learn more

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH)  | Royal Children’s Hospital

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) | Better Health Channel 

Circumcision is a surgical procedure that removes the foreskin from the penis. In Australia, routine circumcision for healthy babies is not recommended as medical experts consider that the risks outweigh the potential benefits for most infants.   

If you are considering circumcision for your baby, discuss the benefits, risks and alternatives with your healthcare provider so you can make an informed decision that is right for your family.  

Learn more

Foreskin and penis conditions in children | health.vic.gov.au 

Circumcision | Raising Children Network 

A normal temperature for a newborn baby is 36.5°C to 37.5°C. Newborns can become cold or overheat more easily than older children.

For babies under 6 months, a digital thermometer placed in the armpit (underarm) is the recommended way to check their temperature. Forehead and ear thermometers are less accurate in young babies and are not routinely recommended. 

All young babies with a temperature of 38°C or higher should be seen urgently. 

Find out when to seek medical care for your baby.

Learn more

Children’s medicines: a guide | Raising Children Network   

Fever in babies - what to do if your baby has a high temperature | Pregnancy, Birth and Baby 

Abnormal temperature | Safer Care Victoria 

Fever and high temperature in children and babies - when to see a doctor | healthdirect 

Newborn skin can look very different from older children’s skin. Many babies develop rashes, dry skin, birthmarks or skin colour changes in the first few weeks of life. Most of these are harmless and improve without needing treatment. If you’re concerned about your baby’s skin or overall health, contact your healthcare provider.   

Some common newborn skin conditions include: 

• Dry or peeling skin
  This is common in babies who are born after their due date, it usually improves on its own and does not required treatment.   
• Milia (Milk Spots)
  Small white bumps often seen on the nose, chin or cheeks. These are harmless and usually disappear. You should not try to pop them.  
• Erythema Toxicum (Newborn Rash)
  A common rash that looks like small yellow or white bumps surrounded by red skin. It may come and go and usually resolves without treatment.   
• Baby acne
  Small red or white pimples that often appear on the face during the first few weeks of life. It usually improves on its own in the first few months.  
• Congenital Dermal Melanocytosis (“Mongolian Spots”) 
  Flat blue-grey patches, commonly seen on the lower back or buttocks. These are normal birthmarks and often fades over time.   
• Birth marks
  Many babies are born with birthmarks or develop them shortly after birth. Most are harmless but your healthcare can advise if monitoring is needed.   
• Cradle cap
  Greasy, yellow or flaky scales on the scalp. Common and harmless although it can sometimes spread to the eyebrows or behind the ears.   
• Nappy Rash
  Red, irritated skin in the nappy area. Usually improves with frequent nappy changes, gentle skin care and barrier creams containing zinc.

Seek urgent medical care if:

• the rash does not fade when pressed  
• your baby appears lethargic, difficult to wake, or unwell  
• the rash is associated with fever (>38 degrees)  
• you baby is not feeding well or has fewer wet nappies.

Learn more

Common childhood rashes | Pregnancy, Birth and Baby

Jaundice is common in newborn babies and causes temporary yellowing of the eyes and skin.

If your baby has darker skin, it can be difficult to see if their skin is more yellow. You can check the whites of their eyes or gums, palms or soles of their feet in natural daylight.

Babies who are jaundiced can be sleepy at the breast or difficult to wake.

In most babies, jaundice is mild and improves on its own as feeding establishes and milk supply increases. However, some babies develop higher levels of jaundice that requires monitoring and treatment with special phototherapy lights.

In hospital or while still under the care of your midwife at home, your baby’s jaundice will be monitored. This may be done with a hand-held monitor or a blood test.

Contact your maternity care provider if your baby’s jaundice appears to be worsening, your baby is difficult to wake, feeding poorly, has few wet nappies or you are concerned. Early assessment and treatment can help prevent complications.

Learn more

Jaundice in babies | Better Health Channel  

Jaundice in babies | Pregnancy, Birth and Baby  

Jaundice in newborns | Raising Children Network  

Neonatal sepsis is a serious infection that can occur in newborn babies. It can develop in the first few days after birth or later in the newborn period. 

Some babies have a higher chance of developing an infection before, during or after birth. Having one or more of these risk factors does not mean your baby will become unwell. However, your healthcare team may recommend extra monitoring, assessments or treatment to help identify any concerns early and keep your baby safe. 

Your baby may be at higher risk if: 

• your waters were broken for more than 18 hours before birth 
• you had a fever or infection during pregnancy or labour 
• your baby was born early (preterm) 
• your baby showed signs of distress during labour 
• you had Group B Streptococcus (GBS) detected during pregnancy or have previously had a baby affected by GBS 
• additional procedures were required during pregnancy or labour.

Symptoms may include: 

• fever (38°C or above) 
• low temperature (<36.5°C) 
• poor feeding 
• increased sleepiness or lethargy 
• irritability 
• breathing difficulties 
• fewer wet nappies 
• pale, mottled or blue skin 
• vomiting.

Seek medical advice promptly if your baby develops any of these symptoms or you are concerned about your baby. 

Learn more

Sepsis Signs and Symptoms Infants | Sepsis Australia 

Kids Health Info : Sepsis | Royal Children’s Hospital

Sepsis in babies and children | Pregnancy, Birth and Baby

Neonatal herpes is a rare but serious infection that can affect newborn babies. Infection can occur during birth or through contact with someone who has an active cold sore. 

Good hand hygiene and asking people not to kiss your baby on the face, lips or hands, especially if they have an active cold sore, can help reduce the risk of infection. 

Symptoms can include:

• fever or low temperature 
• poor feeding 
• lethargy 
• irritability 
• blister-like rash or sores 
• seizures 
• breathing difficulties 
• appearing generally unwell.

Seek medical advice promptly if your baby develops any of these symptoms 

Learn more

Kids Health Info : Herpes simplex gingivostomatitis | Royal Children’s Hospital

Herpes simplex mouth infection in children | Raising Children Network 

Cold sores (herpes simplex) fact sheet | NHMRC 

Cold sores in pregnancy and breastfeeding | Pregnancy, Birth and Baby 

Whooping cough is a highly contagious infection that can be serious for young babies especially before they have received their vaccinations. Receiving the whooping cough vaccine during pregnancy helps protect both you and your baby. Vaccinating close family members and keeping your baby's vaccinations up to date can also help protect your baby. 

Symptoms can include: 

• apnoea (pauses in breathing) 
• colour changes 
• poor feeding 
• coughing episodes 
• vomiting after coughing.

Seek medical advice promptly if your baby develops any of these symptoms.

Learn more

Kids Health Info : Whooping cough | Royal Children’s Hospital

Whooping cough: babies, children & teens | Raising Children Network 

Whooping cough (pertussis) | Australian Centre for Disease Control 

Whooping cough in babies and children - symptoms, protection | Pregnancy, Birth and Baby

RSV is a common virus that can cause bronchiolitis which is a chest infection that affects babies and young children. RSV is one of the most common reasons young babies are admitted to hospital, particularly in the first 6 months of life. 

Receiving the RSV vaccine during pregnancy can help protect your baby from severe RSV infection and bronchiolitis in the early months after birth. 

Symptoms can include: 

• difficulty breathing 
• difficulty feeding 
• dehydration 
• apnoea (pauses in breathing) in very young babies. 

Seek medical advice promptly if your baby develops any of these symptoms 

Learn more

Kids Health Info : Bronchiolitis | Royal Children’s Hospital

Bronchiolitis in babies & toddlers | Raising Children Network 

Bronchiolitis | Better Health Channel 

Bronchiolitis fact sheet | NHMRC 

Meningitis is an infection of the lining around the brain and can be caused by bacteria or viruses. In newborns, meningitis often presents differently to older children. It is a serious illness in babies and requires treatment immediately. Immunisation can protect against some forms of meningitis.  

Symptoms may include: 

• fever or low temperature 
• poor feeding 
• excessive sleepiness 
• high-pitched cry 
• irritability 
• vomiting 
• seizures 
• bulging fontanelle (soft spot).

Learn more

Meningitis | Kids Health Info

Meningitis: babies, children & teens | Raising Children Network 

Meningitis | Better Health Channel 

Safe sleeping 

Creating a safe sleep environment and responding to your baby's need for comfort and connection can support both healthy development and safer sleep. 

Red Nose recommends six key steps to reduce the risk of Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy (SUDI):  

1. Always place baby on their back to sleep. 
2. Keep baby's face and head uncovered. 
3. Keep baby smoke-free before and after birth. 
4. Provide a safe sleeping environment day and night (firm, flat mattress in a safe cot or bassinet). 
5. Sleep baby in their own safe sleep space in the same room as a parent or caregiver for the first 6-12 months. 
6. Breastfeed if possible. 

Learn more:

Safe Sleeping Guide | Red Nose Australia 

How to make up a baby's cot | Red Nose Australia

Bassinets

Bassinets are used from birth until your baby starts to roll over, push up on their hands and knees or sit unaided, usually around 6 months of age.

Cots

Babies can sleep in a cot that meets Australian safety standards from birth until they are developmentally ready to transition into a bed – usually between 2 and 3.5 years. Some cots have an adjustable mattress base. Use the higher position for young babies and lower the mattress as soon as your baby starts to sit, pull up or stand to help prevent falls.

Financial concerns

If financial concerns will prevent you from accessing a cot that complies with Australian safety standards, you may be eligible to access funding through the Nursery Equipment Program | health.vic.gov.au.

Swaddling (wrapping) can help some young babies feel calm, settled and secure. If you choose to swaddle your baby, it is important to do so safely.  

Safe swaddling tips

• Always place your baby on their back to sleep.
• Wrap the upper body firmly but not tightly.
• Make sure your baby's chest can expand normally for breathing.
• Check that your baby does not become too hot.
• Stop swaddling when your baby starts showing signs of rolling, usually around 3-6 months. 

Hip health and swaddling 

• Your baby's legs should be able to bend up and out in a natural "frog-like" position.
• Allow plenty of room for the hips and knees to move freely.
• Avoid wrapping your baby's legs tightly together or straight down, as this may affect healthy hip development and increase the risk of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH).

If you choose to swaddle, keep the wrap snug around the arms and upper body, but loose around the hips and legs so your baby can move freely, and their hips can develop normally. 

Learn more

Hip-Healthy Swaddling | International Hip Dysplasia Institute 

Safe Swaddling | Healthy Hips Australia

Kids Health Info : Wrapping (swaddling) your baby safely – video | Royal Children’s Hospital

Sleeping bags 

If you decide not to swaddle your baby, a well-fitted sleeping bag (sleep sack) is a safe alternative from birth. It can help keep your baby warm without the need for loose blankets. 

When choosing a sleeping bag make sure to:

• use the correct size for your baby 
• fit it securely around the neck and chest so your baby cannot slip inside 
• choose one with fitted armholes and no hood 
• dress your baby appropriately underneath to avoid overheating 
• always place your baby on their back to sleep 
• ensure the sleeping bag is the right rating and dress your baby for the room temperature to help avoid overheating or becoming too cold.

When to stop swaddling

Stop swaddling as soon as your baby shows signs of rolling, often from around 12 weeks of age. At this stage, your baby should sleep with their arms free so they can move and reposition themselves safely. 

A properly fitted sleeping bag can be a safe and practical alternative to swaddling and supports a safe sleep environment. 

Learn more

Safe Sleeping Bag: Keeping Your Baby Cozy And Protected While They Sleep 

Safe Sleeping | Miracle Babies

Using a sling, wrap or baby carrier is just one way to keep your baby close, comfort them and keep your hands free. To help keep your baby safe, always follow the manufacturer's instructions. 

Babies under 4 months of age need extra care, as they have limited head and neck control and are at greater risk of airway obstruction. 

These include: 

• Suffocation if your baby's nose and mouth are covered or their airway becomes blocked.
• Falls if the carrier is not fitted correctly or a baby slips out.
• Hip problems if your baby's legs are not supported in a healthy position. Choose a carrier that supports your baby's hips in a natural "M" position, with: 
  • knees higher than their bottom 
  • thighs supported 
  • legs spread around your body.

Safety tips

• Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Check your baby's position regularly.
• Never use curled-up positions where your baby's face cannot be seen.
• If your baby falls asleep in a carrier, continue to monitor their breathing and position.
• Baby carriers are not a substitute for a safe sleep space. If your baby is asleep and you are no longer wearing them, move them to a safe cot or bassinet.

Learn more

Slings And Baby Carriers | Red Nose Australia

Baby carrier, sling & backpack safety | Raising Children Network 

Choosing a baby carrier | Australian Breastfeeding Association 

Baby carriers, slings and backpacks | Pregnancy, Birth and Baby 

The safest place for a baby to sleep is in their own safe cot or bassinet. Red Nose does not recommend co-sleeping (sharing a sleep surface) but recognises that some families choose to co-sleep or may unintentionally fall asleep with their baby. If you choose to co-sleep, it is important to know how to reduce the risk of harm to your baby. 

Learn more

Safer Co-Sleeping Guide | Red Nose Australia

Co-sleeping With Your Baby | Red Nose Australia

Tips On Co-sleeping With Bub | Red Nose Australia

Co-Sleeping With Your Baby On A Sofa Or Couch. Is It Safe? | Red Nose

This information focusses on reducing risk to you and your baby and supporting healthy outcomes. 

If you feel alcohol or other substance use is a problem for you, seek help from a trusted healthcare professional or contact DirectLine for 24 hour support, advice, counselling and referral. Speaking openly with a trusted healthcare provider can help you access practical advice and identify the safest option about quitting for you and your baby.  

Smoking and vaping

• The safest option is not to smoke or vape around babies and children. 
• Second-hand smoke and vape exposure can increase the risk of Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy (SUDI), chest infections, ear infections and asthma for your baby. 
• If you smoke or vape, wash your hands before handling your baby.  
• Keep all vaping equipment out of reach of children. 
• Consider changing your outer clothing before holding your baby. 
• Nicotine and other chemicals can pass into breast milk. Breastfeeding is still recommended in most situations. 
• Support is available through Quit and iSISTA QUIT to stop smoking or vaping. 

Alcohol

• Alcohol passes into breast milk at similar levels to your blood alcohol level. 
• Alcohol can affect your baby’s feeding, sleep and development.
• If you are drinking alcohol, ensure another responsible adult is available to help care for your baby. 
• Do not share a bed surface with your infant if you or your partner has consumed alcohol. 
• The Feed Safe app can help you make informed decisions about breastfeeding and alcohol. 

Medicines and other drugs

Prescribed medications, over the counter medications, vitamins, supplements and herbal remedies should be discussed with your healthcare provider or a pharmacist before use.  

Some medications, recreational drugs and other substances can pass into breast milk and may harm your baby.

Recreational drug use and alcohol consumption can affect your awareness and responsiveness, so always place your baby in their own safe sleep space for every sleep.

Taking prescribed pain relief is an important part of supporting your recovery and comfort, however some strong pain medications can make it more difficult to wake up. To keep your baby safe, never share a bed with your baby after taking these medications.

Helpful contacts

1800 MEDICARE (1800 633 422)
A free, 24/7 helpline where you can speak to a registered nurse about any health concern.  

Nurse-on-Call (1300 60 60 24)
A free helpline that will connect you with a registered nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The Women's Medicines Information Service (03 8345 3190)
For expert advice on medications during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and women's health during operating hours.

Monash Medical Centre Medicines Information (03) 9594 2361
Telephone advice, specialising in medicines for children, during pregnancy and breast feeding and for women’s health, may act as a referral service to direct you to the best available resource to respond to your query or concern.

Learning infant first aid can help parents, grandparents and other carers feel more confident responding to emergencies such as choking, burns, allergic reactions and cardiac arrest. 

First aid recommendations can change over time, so even experienced parents and grandparents may benefit from updating their knowledge. Consider completing an infant or child first aid course before your baby arrives and encourage anyone who will regularly care for your baby to do the same. 

When choosing a course, look for training that covers infant CPR, choking management and common childhood emergencies and is aligned with Australian Resuscitation Council guidelines. 

Learn more

First aid courses | Kidsafe 

Newborn babies rely on adults to keep their environment safe. Taking simple steps to reduce hazards at home can help prevent injuries and create a safer space for your baby. 

Safety considerations for newborns

• Never leave your baby unattended on a change table even for a moment. Keep one hand on your baby during nappy changes. 
• Have everything you need within reach before you start changing your baby. If you need to step away, take your baby with you. 
• Once your baby becomes more active, consider changing them on a clean mat or towel on the floor. 
• Always supervise your baby when using a bouncer, rocker or swing   
• Bouncers, rockers and swings are for play and soothing only. They are not safe places for babies to sleep. If your baby falls asleep, move them to a safe cot or bassinet. Always use the safety harness when using these products and always place them on the floor, never on a bench, table, bed or other raised surfaces. 
• Use baby swings only for supervised awake time. If your baby falls asleep, transfer them to a safe cot or bassinet, as seated or inclined positions can affect a baby's airway and breathing. 
• Keep your baby's sleep, play and feeding areas free from hazards including cords, heaters, medications and other potentially dangerous items  
• As your baby grows and develops new skills, regularly review your home environment. Babies can learn to roll, reach and crawl sooner than you might expect.

All babies in Victoria must travel in an approved rearward facing child restraint from birth until at least 6 months of age. However, remaining rearward facing for longer provides the best protection and is recommended until your child reaches the maximum height or size limit for the restraint. 

Before bringing your baby home, make sure you have a correctly fitted rearward-facing child restraint installed and know how to use it safely.  

Kidsafe Victoria, VicRoads and other local organisations offer low-cost or free car restraint fitting and checking services. 

• Use an approved rearward-facing child restraint that meets Australian Standard AS/NZS 1754. 
• Have your restraint professionally fitted or checked whenever possible. 
• Ensure harness straps are correctly adjusted and fit snugly against your baby's body. 
• A baby capsule is designed for travel and may be used outside the vehicle for short periods. However, babies should not routinely sleep in a capsule, car seat or other restraint outside of travel. 
• A car seat restraint is designed to remain in the car and can be used for newborns to toddlers. 
• If your baby falls asleep during a journey, move them to a safe sleep space, such as a cot or bassinet, as soon as practical after reaching your destination. 
• Avoid leaving your baby in a capsule or car restraint for longer than necessary, particularly when they are very young. 
• Plan regular breaks on longer journeys so your baby can be fed, cuddled, moved and repositioned. 
• Never place bulky clothing, blankets or inserts between your baby and the harness unless supplied or approved by the restraint manufacturer. 
• Never leave your baby unattended in a vehicle, even for a short time. 

Check regularly that your baby is comfortable and has not become overheated during travel, particularly in warm weather. 

Learn more or find an accredited car seat fitter

Safe Seats, Safe Kids | Kidsafe VIC

Child car seats and restraints | Transport Victoria

Kids Health Info : Car seat safety | Royal Children’s Hospital

Types of child car seats & when your child can use them | Raising Children Network

Child car seats & restraints | information & advice | RACV

What are the laws for child car restraints in taxis and rideshare services? | Kidsafe VIC

Water safety starts from birth. Babies and young children can drown in only a few centimetres of water and in as little as 20 seconds, so active supervision is always essential around water  

• Never leave your baby alone in the bath, even for a moment. Always keep your baby within arm's reach.  
• If you need to leave the room, take your baby with you. 
• An adult should be responsible for directly supervising bath time. 
• Have everything you need ready before bath time to avoid distractions.   
• Use only a small amount of water in the bath and empty the bath immediately after use Remove the plug and store it out of your child's reach.  
• The recommended bath water temperature is 37°C to 38°C. Always check the water temperature before placing your baby in the bath.  
• Turn the cold water on first and off last when filling the bath to help prevent scalds.  
• Bath seats and bath aids are not safety devices and should never be used as a substitute for supervision.  
• As your child grows, supervise them around all water sources, including buckets, paddling pools, pet water bowls, fishponds, eskies containing melted ice, pools and spas.   
• Empty buckets, paddling pools and other containers holding water immediately after use.  
• Learning infant and child CPR can help you respond quickly in an emergency.

Learn more

Safe bath temperature | Raising Children Network

Bath safety | Kids Safe Victoria

Kids Health Info : Water safety | Royal Children’s Hospital

Bath Time Safety | Royal Life Saving Society - Australia 

Preventing drowning in the bath | Raising Children Network 

Before bringing your baby home, make sure you have working smoke alarms and a home fire escape plan. 

Decide who will be responsible for getting your baby to safety in an emergency.

Keep cots, bassinets and bedding at least 1 metre away from heaters and other heat sources.

Select clothing, particularly sleep wear, that is labelled “Low Fire Danger” where possible and follow any safety warnings attached to the garment. 

Keep babies and children away from candles, oil burners and other open flames. Never leave them unattended and do not position them near curtains, bedding or other flammable material. Always extinguish them before leaving a room or going to sleep.

Learn more

Fires, Burns & Scalds | Kidsafe VIC

Bringing home your newborn is a big adjustment for everyone, including your pets. They may need some help to adjust to life with a baby in the house. The best approach is to start preparing your pets for a baby while you’re still pregnant. Taking this time and effort will help to enable a smooth transition and avoid jealousy and resentment.   

Before your baby arrives, plan for who will care for your pets while you are in hospital. After birth, supervise all interactions between pets and your baby, and ensure pet food, water, animal waste and medications are stored safely to help reduce the risk of illness or injury.  

Learn more

Preparing | We Are Family

Introducing Your Pet To Your New Baby | Red Nose Australia 

Dogs and kids - Easy read fact sheet | Kidsafe Victoria