How much will it cost?
Mercy Health O'Connell Family Centre is a registered public hospital and you will be admitted as a public patient.

There are some fees associated with nappy disposal and extra meals. Credit card facilities are not available.

Do you use controlled crying?
Mercy Health O'Connell Family Centre does not use controlled crying.

We use sleep and settling strategies that suit the needs of each individual family.

Do I get my own room?
Each residential family is able to have the use of two bedrooms. Some bathrooms are shared. Bed linen and towels are supplied, but if your baby or child has a skin condition, we recommend using your own linen and towels.

Day Stay families need to provide their own cot sheets x 2 and a cot blanket.

What facilities do you have?
The dining, lounge and play areas are shared with the other families. Our outdoor play area has low climbing equipment, a sand pit and some bikes. High chairs are available for all children. You can use our laundry facilities (washing machine, dryer and clothes line); we supply washing powder.

There is a public phone available to clients. Mobile phones can be used. We do not have internet facilities.

Where do I park?
There is free parking onsite. Enter carpark via Parlington Street.

Can I smoke?
Mercy Health O'Connell Family Centre is a totally smoke free facility, in the buildings and on the grounds.

Do I need a referral?
You only need a referral from a doctor if you or any admitted family member is on medication. All medications must be listed on the referral form.

Can we go out?
Yes, families can leave the centre. Mercy Health O'Connell Family Centre is in Canterbury. Camberwell Junction is a 20 minute walk away and walking tracks are close by. Parents are responsible for their children at all times.
 

What food is available?
All meals are provided for admitted clients, but you are welcome to bring snacks.

If you or your child have special dietary requirements or allergies you will need to inform staff so that your dietary needs are met.

Additional meals for visitors are available at a small charge. Please place and pay for orders 24 hours in advance.

Peanut products are not available or permitted onsite in case of severe allergic reactions. Please note that some packaged biscuits may contain traces of nuts.

Can I drink alcohol?
Alcohol is not permitted during your stay at Mercy Health O'Connell Family Centre.

What if a family member is unwell?
If a family member is unwell up to seven days before admission, please call us on 03 8416 7600 any weekday, 9am-5pm.

If you are unwell on the weekend before your admission, you can ring on the day of your admission between 9.00-9.30am.

If a family member becomes unwell while staying at Mercy Health O'Connell Family Centre, the family will be discharged and offered another admission date.