Knox City Council has welcomed the Victorian Government’s statewide $27.2 million funding pledge for Maternal and Child Health (MCH), while urging long-term funding reform to secure the future of the service.
Council has joined peak body the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) in calling for a restored 50:50 partnership with the State that reflects the true cost of delivering Victoria’s universal MCH service.
Knox Mayor, Councillor Paige Kennett said temporary funding alone would not secure the future of the service.
“That’s why we’re joining the MAV in calling for a restored 50:50 partnership to ensure every family in Knox can continue to access this trusted support from our MCH nurses,” she said.
“Every year, Council contributes above the State’s share to ensure families continue to receive this important service.”
The State currently funds $142.62 of each hour of MCH service despite it costing councils about $287 to deliver.
“As costs have increased, the government’s contribution hasn’t kept pace leaving Council to cover the shortfall,” Cr Kennett said.
“This funding is an important acknowledgement that the current model does not reflect the true cost of delivering the MCH service.
“For the first time, the Department of Health’s own analysis confirms the funding gap that councils have been talking about for a while.”
Council is also asking for capital investment in Council-owned MCH facilities, professional development and leadership programs and improved clinical governance.
“Without restored funding and broader reforms, the long-term sustainability of the MCH service in Knox will be at significant risk,” Cr Kennett said.
