It takes a village to raise a child.
Find yours in the heart of Taree.

First Steps Count is a child and family hub where families can connect, play, and access the health & wellbeing support they need — all in one beautiful place.

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Welcome to First Steps Count

We’re building the village — one connection at a time.

Parenting isn’t meant to be done alone. At First Steps Count, you’ll find people, programs and professionals who are here to walk alongside you. We’re a child and family hub in Taree, open to all families with children aged 0–12.

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Drop-In Play & Connection

Come as you are. We’re open weekdays for free play, chats and connection. See what’s possible while the kids run free.

Onsite Health & Wellbeing Support

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Women’s health nurses, child development services, new parent programs and more.

Room Hire for Service Providers, Workshops & Events

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We have a range of spaces, perfect for faciltating appointments, corporate meetings and events.

Every family deserves a village and every child deserves a strong start.

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Here, health and community services come together under one roof in a space that feels safe, calm and beautiful — a place that feels like it’s for you.

Whether you’re here to let the kids run wild, ask questions, or just breathe for a minute, you’ll be met with warmth and support. And if you need more, we’ll walk with you to find it.

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Meet the Village: See What’s Here

We’re building a truly connected village of care. These are just some of the services already on-site, working in partnership with families:

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More than a building, it’s a vision.

Strategically situated in Manning Gardens on Biripi country, First Steps Count was purpose-built to address the unique needs of our community.

The location ensures that the Centre is within easy reach of local housing, schools, and other essential destinations, making it accessible to those who need it most.

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This is what community-led change looks like.

First Steps Count isn’t just a building — it’s a new way of working. We’re bringing people, services and purpose together in one place to shift long-term outcomes for children and families in our region.

Our approach is grassroots, trauma-informed and deeply embedded in community. If you're looking to invest in meaningful, measurable change — we’d love to connect.

It all starts with a visit to see what’s possible.

You’re welcome to drop in any time — no appointment, no entry fee. Come and explore the space, meet the team, and see what’s here for you. Sometimes the first step is simply seeing what’s possible — and we’d love to show you around.

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