Parents will continue to receive parenting support from the comfort of their own home as the Minns Government secures the future of the popular Virtual Residential Parenting Service for the next five years with a $14 million investment.
The Virtual Residential Parenting Service (VRPS) is a free, online service which provides intensive parenting support to NSW families with children aged 0-3 years.
Delivered through Affiliated Health Organisations and not for profits Karitane and Tresillian, the service has helped more than 3,400 families since it began in 2021. As part of the additional funding, Karitane and Tresillian will receive $7 million each to continue the service until 2030.
The VRPS provides support from a multidisciplinary team of health professionals such as child and family health nurses, social workers, psychologists and doctors.
It can provide support for:
- sleeping and settling
- feeding
- child development and behaviour
- parents' mental wellbeing
The service has demonstrated significant success, with parents and caregivers reporting it allowed them to maintain their family routines while accessing the support they need.
Families and caregivers that would otherwise be unable to access in-person parenting services due to work and other caring responsibilities also reported the service allowed them to access support more easily.
One in four families accessing the service are located in regional or remote areas of NSW.
To learn more about the Virtual Residential Parenting Service and how to access the service visit: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/kidsfamilies/MCFhealth/programs/Pages/VRPS.aspx
The extension of the VRPS builds on the work the Minns Labor Government is already doing to support families. The 2025-26 NSW Budget included:
$83.8 million for a Maternity Care and First 2,000 Days package to grow and upskill the maternity workforce and increase midwifery continuity of care and parenting support in regional areas.
$21.9 million over three years for the Aboriginal Families First 2,000 Days measure to provide culturally responsive care during pregnancy and the first five years of life.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:
"As any parent will understand, having support in the early years of your child's life is critical. This additional funding will secure the future of the Virtual Residential Parenting Service to 2030, ensuring families can continue to access the support they need, when they need it.
"For families that need more flexible support options, this virtual service means they can work and maintain their family's routines while accessing much-needed advice and support.
"We know that around one in four of the families that engage with the program are from rural and regional NSW, where parents and carers might not be able to easily access face-to-face parenting services.
"I would like to acknowledge the incredible work being done by Karitane and Tresillian, who have helped more than 3,400 families since this initiative began in 2021."
Quotes attributable to Julie, Karitane case study:
"Everyone I've spoken to has been incredibly positive and helpful. The work you all do truly makes a huge difference in how we mums feel.
Knowing that the Virtual Residential Parenting service provided by Karitane is there when we need support has made me feel safer and more confident.
You've helped me reconnect with the joy of being a new mum, even through the tough moments. Thank you again for your hard work and dedication. It means so much to us new parents as we navigate this journey of parenthood."
Quotes attributable to Chloe, Tresillian case study:
"The Virtual Residential Parenting service equipped me with valuable tools and effective strategies to overcome our challenges.
Supported by a team of friendly and experienced staff, we noticed immediate positive change that has continued to improve over time, and I now feel much more confident in our sleep routine."
