Zoe Moffatt
Macedon Ranges council will advocate to the state government for improved Maternal and Child Health (MCH) service funding, following council contributing 13 per cent extra funding over recent years.
In a meeting on September 27, council voted to advocate through the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) for the extra funding, which should be evenly spread over both levels of government, under a Department of Health and MAV agreement.
The Universal MCH service should be funded on a 50-50 basis between council and the state government, however council has been contributing up to 63 per cent over recent years, according to council officers.
Speaking at the meeting, councillor Jennifer Anderson said the MCH service is vital to the community.
“It is a really important time, there is so much going on and so much to learn,” Cr Anderson said.
“Through having this service based at council, there’s that knowledge of all the other services that are out there that may be able to supplement this service.
“We need to tell the state government that this is the right place for MCH service, within the council.
“It is really important that it is adequately funded so we can make sure we get a fantastic service.”
Cr Anne Moore agreed and said providing breastfeeding support is really important.
“In modern day society most [mums]… are in and out of hospital generally between 24 to 48 hours,” she said.
“Sometimes… milk hasn’t even kicked in and they may not have been able to get their baby to feed properly.
“[It is an] important role that MCH brings to our local government area and by looking after our residents on that front.”
Council is advocating for the government to fund this breastfeeding support, which is currently being delivered one day per week.
In their report to councillors, council officers stated that retrospective funding and a budget based on the previous year’s service delivery numbers contribute to funding inequity.
