Perth Children's Hospital and Health Service

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Nedlands, WA
Perth Children's Hospital and Health Service

Western Australia's specialist paediatric hospital and child health service

CAHS treats children from around Western Australia, and is committed to programs that promote lifelong health in children and adolescents. Our health service is made up of Neonatology, Community Health, Mental Health and Perth Children’s Hospital. CAHS employs over 4,000 people and provides services throughout the community within metropolitan Perth; operating the State’s only dedicated tertiary paediatric hospital (Perth Children’s Hospital); providing specialised state wide services; as well as providing support to other hospitals and health services for children and adolescents across Western Australia.

30/10/2026

For the past four months, 14-year-old Matthew has spent much of his time at Perth Children's Hospital after being diagnosed with leukaemia. Matthew, who is gifted and talented in mathematics, music and robotics, has been supported by Occupational Therapists on our Oncology ward, helping him continue to engage with the interests and activities that are important to him during a challenging time.

From the time of his diagnosis, our Oncology OTs have helped Matthew understand his diagnosis, adjust to hospital routines, cope with painful and stressful medical procedures, accommodate his sensory and communication preferences, manage acute mental health symptoms, and stay connected to meaningful activities.

They have also supported his rehabilitation and return-to-school journey, while working closely with his mum to navigate the changes that come with extended hospital stays.

Reflecting on his experience, Matthew shared:

"My OTs were like a ray of light in a dark time. My OTs did fun things with me that helped me feel better and get ready to go back to school."

Matthew's mum said:

"OT has been a comforting presence whilst Matthew learns to cope with medical procedures, without sedation. He has learnt how to start advocating for his physical, mental and emotional needs with medical staff, and in life, whilst building up his independence and interpersonal skills."

This OT Week, we're celebrating the invaluable role Occupational Therapists play in helping children and families navigate some of life's most challenging moments.

We extend our sincere thanks to OTs across Perth Children's Hospital and Neonatology, Child and Adolescent Community Health, and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services for the meaningful difference you make every day.

30/10/2026

Preparing your child for a hospital visit just got a little easier.

Perth Children’s Hospital has launched a new video to help children prepare for an echocardiogram (echo). Join Evie and baby Sophie as they take you on their hospital journey, sharing what they see, hear and think along the way.

Co-designed with children and families, this gentle and reassuring resource walks children through what to expect with clear guidance and a calm, friendly approach.

Hospital visits can feel big and unfamiliar, especially for our littlest ones. Filmed from a child and baby’s perspective, Through a child’s eyes gives parents and caregivers simple ways to help reduce anxiety, build confidence and support more positive experiences.

Developed through CAHS Innovation and led by the Department of Clinical Psychology and Neuropsychology, it’s a wonderful example of what can be achieved when families and teams work together.

29/10/2026

Since being diagnosed with severe aplastic anaemia, six-year-old Ellen has spent an extended period in hospital receiving treatment and care.

Throughout her journey, Occupational Therapists have supported Ellen to understand her diagnosis and treatment, develop strategies to cope with medical procedures, and continue participating in the everyday activities that are important to her. Through OT support Ellen has been able to express her feelings, build confidence and adapt to life in hospital.

Occupational Therapists have also worked closely with Ellen's family, supporting her parents to maintain routines and self-care activities, while helping her sibling understand and adjust to the impact of a prolonged hospital stay.

By focusing on what matters most to children and families, Occupational Therapists help make challenging experiences a little easier and support children to thrive during their healthcare journey.

This Occupational Therapy Week, we thank and recognise our incredible Perth Children’s Hospital and Neonatology Occupational Therapists for the compassion, expertise and care they provide every day.

28/10/2026

Born 15 weeks early, twins Thomas and Michael are spending their first months in Perth Children's Hospital's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Occupational Therapists are part of the multidisciplinary team based in the NICU who are supporting the twins and their family each and every day. OTs help support feeding, positioning, sensory development, comfort and wellbeing, while helping parents understand their babies' cues and needs.

Their mum Rachel says:

"The OTs take a holistic approach, considering our babies' developmental needs but also their comfort and wellbeing. They have helped us to think of practical solutions to help our babies cope with the many cares and procedures that they have had during their NICU stay. Their support has helped to make our babies' time in the NICU more meaningful, comfortable and positive."

This OT Week, we're celebrating the incredible difference Occupational Therapists make for babies, children and families every day.

Thank you to our dedicated OT team for the immeasurable care, expertise and support you provide.

27/10/2026

After 312 days in hospital, Tilly finally came home.

Born at just 31 weeks, Tilly has spent much of her young life overcoming challenges with enormous courage. After more than eight months at Perth Children's Hospital, she returned home with her family in August, supported by life-sustaining medical equipment and a tracheostomy.

Along the way, Occupational Therapists have supported play, feeding, development, emotional regulation and helping make medical procedures less stressful and more predictable, they helped Tilly continue to learn, grow and reach important milestones. They also supported her transition from hospital to home, helping build the skills, confidence and routines needed for this significant milestone.

Tilly's family shared:

"The genuine care and connection they show to both children and their families makes such a difference. We are so grateful for the care, patience and dedication the OT team have shown Tilly and our family throughout what has been an incredibly long and challenging journey."

This OT Week, we're proud to celebrate the theme Participation Matters, recognising the incredible work Occupational Therapists do every day to help children and families engage in everyday life, achieve their goals and reach their potential.

Thank you to our Occupational Therapy team for making a difference every single day.

21/10/2026

Children and families at Perth Children’s Hospital had a FANtastic time making their own furry friends alongside Perth Glory players Matt Dench, Emma Tovar and Rola Badawiya in the Starlight Express Room.

After dressing their bears with their favourite sporting team in mind, each child took part in a special heart ceremony, making a wish on a little red heart before placing it inside their new friend.

It was a very special day for kids including Holly, Kaige, Sophia and their newest teammates. A huge thank you to Starlight Children's Foundation Australia and Build-A-Bear Workshop for making it all possible.

19/10/2026

What a weekend, WA!

Together, we helped make Telethon 2026 one for the history books, with a record breaking $101 million raised for WA kids and families. The outpouring of generosity and kindness from across the State has been truly heartwarming.

Our amazing Child and Adolescent Health Service teams were right in the middle of the action, answering phones, guiding guests through Perth Children’s Hospital, and helping create special memories for children and families throughout the weekend.

With appearances from Emma Memma, Fat Cat, Kane Cornes, Mel McLaughlin, The Wiggles, Joanna Griggs, Kyle Shilling, Shane Crawford, Kylie Gillies, Tristan Gorey, Rocco Forrester-Sach, Hailey Pinto and many more, there was no shortage of excitement.

A huge thank you to everyone who donated, volunteered and supported another incredible year of Telethon7 Perth.

17/10/2026

WWE has entered the building!

Megastars AJ Styles and Nattie stopped by Perth Children’s Hospital ahead of Telethon weekend, bringing plenty of superstar moments to children and families.

A few lucky kids including Blade and Elijah got the once in a lifetime chance to meet their wrestling heroes.

Thanks to the WWE Australia and Telethon7 Perth for bringing the excitement to PCH!

16/10/2026

The Telethon countdown is on!

There’s a real buzz around Perth Children’s Hospital (PCH) and the Child and Adolescent Health Service (CAHS) as we get ready for one of WA’s most loved fundraising weekends.

From our incredible phone room volunteers to the teams working behind the scenes and welcoming special guests, we are gearing up to help make this year’s Telethon one to remember.

The excitement kicked off early this morning when Sunrise weatherman Sam Mac dropped by PCH to chat with CAHS Chief Executive Valerie Buić and staff to share the Telethon excitement ahead of the big weekend.

Telethon7 Perth Sunrise

16/10/2026

Applications open for the Youth Advisory Group!

Do you know a young person aged 12 – 23 who is passionate about improving healthcare services for young people in WA?

The Child and Adolescent Health Service is seeking two new members for its Youth Advisory Group. The group provides young people with an opportunity to contribute their lived experience and help shape services across Perth Children's Hospital, Child Development Service and school health services.

Applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and regional young people are welcome.

For eligibility information and application details, visit: https://cahs.health.wa.gov.au/For-families-and-carers/Consumer-engagement/Consumer-groups-and-committees/Youth-Advisory-Council

15/10/2026

Minister for Health Meredith Hammat MLA added her own special message of thanks to our gratitude tree during a visit to Perth Children’s Hospital this week.

Her leaf joined messages from children, families and staff recognising our incredible allied health professionals and the difference they make every day.

Created to celebrate Allied Health Professions Day, gratitude trees at PCH and our Murdoch and Midland Hubs quickly came to life with personalised messages, drawings and words of appreciation.

Families recognised the compassionate, family-focused support they had received, while children added their own messages of thanks and plenty of heart-filled drawings. Staff also celebrated the hard work and dedication of their allied health colleagues.

Around one in four members of the Child and Adolescent Health Service (CAHS) workforce is from allied health, with professionals working across a wide range of disciplines and settings to support the health and wellbeing of children and young people across WA.

To all our allied health professionals, thank you for the difference you make every day.

05/10/2026

Are you a parent or carer who wants to make a difference?

Join our Community Health Research Advisory Group and help improve health services for children and young people across WA.

Community Health services include child health nurse (Purple Book) appointments, Child Development Service, Immunisation, School Health Services, and Aboriginal and Refugee Health services.

No experience is necessary. You'll receive training and support, and be paid $37.50 per hour to attend online meetings held every 6-8 weeks.

If you've used Community Health services and want to share your experiences and ideas, we'd love to hear from you.

Learn more and apply: https://cahs.health.wa.gov.au/For-families-and-carers/Consumer-engagement/Consumer-groups-and-committees/Community-Health-Research-Advisory-Group

25/09/2026

We’re proud to celebrate paediatric nurse Arielle Jolly, winner of the Consumer Experience Award at the 2026 Child and Adolescent Health Service Annual Excellence Awards.

Serving with exceptional sensitivity and compassion, Arielle is redefining bereavement care for families who experience the sudden and unexpected loss of a child in Perth Children’s Hospital’s Paediatric Intensive Care Unit.

Through her leadership of the FOOTPRINTS Bereavement Project, Arielle’s research is providing psychosocial support to families during their darkest times following the loss of a child.

Central to Arielle’s approach is the recognition of families as experts in their own experiences. Arielle has created a safe and respectful space for families to share about loss and shape the FOOTPRINTS bereavement service, ensuring the voices of families are heard and valued.

“It's such a privilege to work together with families to understand their grief and design support to help other bereaved families navigate the road ahead,” said Arielle.

Thank you Arielle for your compassion and commitment to WA families.

24/09/2026

Parents and caregivers of children aged 0-8 with a disability, neurodivergence or developmental concerns - we would love to invite you to the Envisage Families Program!

This is a totally free program for parents and caregivers to find community, connection, support and strategies to help their families thrive.

With changes to the NDIS and Thriving Kids, now is a great time to secure your spot for Term 4!

There will be 5 x Weekly Workshops delivered online from 22 October in the evening from 7:30pm!

No NDIS plan/diagnosis needed, peer-supportive community, evidence-based framework.

Register today for our program!

5 x Thursday evenings from 22 October delivered online at 7:30pm (WA time).
Register here: https://tinyurl.com/ENVISAGE-984

23/09/2026

How do you travel to and from the QEII Medical Centre campus?

The QEII Medical Centre Trust is developing a Travel Plan and wants to hear from patients, visitors, staff and students who access the campus.

Whether you drive, walk, cycle, catch public transport, or use a combination of travel options, your feedback will help shape future discussions around accessibility, parking, active transport, public transport, and campus connectivity.

Survey takes just 5-10 minutes
Open until Friday 2 October 2026

Complete the survey here: https://survey.zohopublic.com.au/zs/vzDXyD

21/09/2026

This , we’re sharing Cruz’s story. Diagnosed with a rare brain cancer, atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumour (AT/RT), at just four months old, Cruz and his family have experienced the challenges of childhood cancer first-hand.

Through the WA Comprehensive Kids Cancer Centre, clinical teams and researchers are working together to better understand childhood cancer, develop new treatments and improve care for children and families like Cruz’s.

The WA Comprehensive Kids Cancer Centre brings together researchers from The Kids Research Institute Australia and The University of Western Australia with clinical teams at Perth Children’s Hospital.

18/09/2026

Two years ago, what started as a mystery leg pain for 3-year-old Bubba rapidly escalated into a life-threatening septic infection, leaving her fighting for her life at Perth Children’s Hospital (PCH).

During her battle with sepsis, the WA toddler nearly lost her life. She underwent multiple major surgeries and spent time on heart and lung support. As the infection spread rapidly throughout her body, Bubba lost her right lung and came close to losing her leg.

Three times her family were told she may not survive, and at one point were advised to pray for a miracle.

A testament to her incredible fighting spirit, Bubba has made a remarkable recovery and is now a happy, healthy 5 year old who is thriving in sports, swimming and enjoying life to the fullest with her family.

Bubba’s parents, Charky and Thornton, said the subtle signs of sepsis took them by surprise. They credit the unwavering support of family, their Christian faith and the compassionate care and clinical excellence of the PCH team with helping bring Bubba back to health.

Bubba was also the first child in WA to trial phage therapy, a treatment that played a crucial role in saving her life from sepsis.

Sepsis is the body’s overwhelming response to an already present infection. It is a life-threatening medical emergency that requires urgent treatment.

Watch the video to learn about what you need to know about sepsis: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSZMMN8JHN0

17/09/2026

Stories like this are what Sandcastles Children's Hospice is all about💜

A few weeks ago, we spent a special afternoon with Adeline, her family and 9 News Perth taking a sneak peek inside Sandcastles while learning more about Adeline's experience living with CDKL5 deficiency disorder.

Adeline lives with a rare, genetic, and life-limiting neurological condition that requires 24/7 care. Some days she experiences multiple prolonged seizures; other days she has none, with no clear trigger. These seizures cannot be controlled.

For her parents, Anna and Michael, Adeline’s quality of life is everything. Families like the Pitmans are why Sandcastles exists: so that children with life-limiting conditions, parents and siblings can feel safe, supported and able to simply be together when it matters most.

Thanks to a partnership between Perth Children's Hospital Foundation and Perth Children's Hospital and Health Service, WA's first purpose-built children's hospice is set to open its doors next month, providing WA families with specialist medical care and respite, symptom management, end-of-life care, and family and bereavement support in a warm, home-like environment designed for comfort, connection and precious moments together.

Learn more or donate at sandcastles.org.au

14/09/2026

A major milestone for WA's first purpose-built children's hospice.

Construction of Sandcastles (Boodja Mia) Children's Hospice is now complete, bringing us one step closer to welcoming children and families through its doors in October.

Delivered in partnership by Perth Children's Hospital Foundation and Perth Children's Hospital and Health Service, Sandcastles will provide a home away from home for children with life-limiting conditions and their families, offering around-the-clock specialist clinical care, end-of-life care, bereavement support and respite accommodation for families across Western Australia.

Designed with children and families at its heart, the hospice includes seven guest bedrooms with ensuites, three family suites, and a range of purpose-built spaces including a hydrotherapy pool, shared living and dining areas, indoor and outdoor play spaces, sensory and therapeutic spaces, and a memorial garden.

We can't wait for families to walk through the doors and feel immediately held, to see children exploring spaces created just for them, and to watch our team deliver care in an environment that truly supports the depth and complexity of paediatric palliative needs.

We look forward to welcoming our first families soon.

08/09/2026

Influenza is still circulating across WA, making flu vaccination as important as ever.

It’s still not too late to get your flu vaccination and help protect yourself and your family.

Free flu vaccinations are available for all the family at the Stan Perron Centre based at Perth Children’s Hospital (PCH).

The Stan Perron Centre is located on level 2 at PCH. Opening hours Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:00pm. Last vaccination: 3:45pm. Walk ins welcome.

Eligibility based vaccinations are also available at Child and Adolescent Community Health (CACH) clinics. Bookings are recommended. To check your eligibility and book your appointment see here: https://cahs.health.wa.gov.au/Our-services/Community-Health/Immunisation/Register-for-an-appointment

Free vaccinations are available at your local GP or pharmacy for:
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and over
• Children aged 6 months to under 5 years
• Pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
• People aged 65 years and over
• People aged 6 months and over with eligible medical conditions
• Primary school-aged children
• People aged 12 to under 65 years experiencing homelessness or living in congregate settings.

07/09/2026

Congratulations to the winners of the 2026 CAHS Annual Excellence Awards!

The Child and Adolescent Health Service (CAHS) Annual Excellence Awards recognise the outstanding people and teams whose dedication and service help ensure the care and experience of children, young people and families remain at the heart of everything we do.

Selected from a competitive field of 44 exceptional finalists, 16 staff members, volunteers and teams were honoured for their significant contributions to supporting the health and wellbeing of children, young people and families across Western Australia.

The awards celebrated excellence in clinical care, leadership, research, innovation, teamwork and service delivery, showcasing the remarkable talent, expertise and commitment that exists across CAHS.

We’re proud to have such incredible people as part of our team and congratulate all our winners and finalists on this outstanding achievement.

View the full list of winners and learn more about their stories: https://cahs.health.wa.gov.au/About-Us/Annual-Excellence-Awards

A huge thank you to Smartau, Perth Children's Hospital Foundation, Rotary Club of Karrinyup, HESTA and Paywise for their support of the 2026 CAHS Annual Excellence Awards. Their generosity helps make the awards program possible and enables us to celebrate the people making a meaningful difference for children, young people and families across Western Australia.

Address

15 Hospital Avenue
Nedlands, WA
6009

Website

http://www.cahs.health.wa.gov.au/

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