Early Intervention

What is Early intervention?

Early Intervention provides support for babies and young children who have a developmental delay or disability. It aims to promote the child's development and inclusion.

It plays an important part in the development of children with Down syndrome.

A range of services are available from birth to 6 years of age, including physical therapies and speech and language therapies.

You can receive further information about these services from Specialist Children's Services - brochure

Early Childhood Intervention Services (ECIS) Department of Education and Early Childhood Development

Families can self refer or may be referred by professionals such as paediatricians or early childhood nurses.

Some areas have waiting lists for Early Intervention services so we recommend that you contact the Intake Worker at Specialist Children's Services as soon as possible to put your name down for a service in your area:

• Western Region - 9275 7500
• Northern Region - 9479 0121
• Southern Region - 1300 720 151
• Eastern Region - 1300 662 655
• Regional & Central - 1800 783 783

Does your child need extra therapy? The Medicare Allied Health Initiative and dental care initiative allows access to Medicare rebates for allied health services. See your GP for further information about this initiative and to get a referral to an appropriate therapist.