Expecting Twins or Triplets? Your Local Council Might Have Support Waiting for You

If you’re expecting twins or triplets or even more, chances are your to-do list is already longer than your legs (and let’s be honest, they’re probably swelling by now too!). But here’s something many expecting parents don’t realise: your local council might offer free or low-cost support tailored to growing families—and you won’t know unless you ask.

Whether it’s cloth nappy rebates, extra help from child health nurses, or even free library play sessions, some Aussie councils are stepping up to support families like yours. Here’s what to ask about—and why it’s worth making the call.

Why Contact Your Local Council When Expecting Twins or Triplets

Raising twins, triplets or more comes with double (or triple!) the laundry, nappies, appointments, and questions. While your friends might be worrying about pram colours, you’re out here trying to figure out how to safely fit three car seats.

Many local councils have family-friendly programs and services in place—but they often fly under the radar.

Here’s just a taste of what members of the Twinfo community have uncovered from their local councils:

• Cloth nappy and reusable sanitary product rebates
• FREE additional general waste bin if a certain number of people live in the house
• FREE or discounted larger recycling bin upgrades
• Home visits from Child Health nurses
• Requests for at-home vaccinations
• Priority access to sleep and settling services
• Free infant and child sessions such as:
• Rhyme Time at the library
• Story sessions and baby book clubs
• Council-run playgroups or parent meetups

These sessions can be a lifesaver in the early months—not just for your babies’ development, but for your mental health too. They offer structure to your week, get you out of the house, and help you connect with other local parents.

How to Start the Conversation With Your Council

It doesn’t have to be a formal or complicated process. A quick phone call or email is often all it takes.

You could say something like:

“Hi, I’m expecting twins (or triplets or more) and I wanted to check if the council offers any support or services for growing families.”

From there, ask if you can be connected to:

• Family or community services
• Early parenting support officers
• Maternal and child health nurses
• Community waste services (for bin requests)
• Library services and community development officers (for playgroups and children’s programs)

Don’t forget to mention if you’re experiencing specific challenges—like limited support at home, anxiety, or financial pressure. Councils may have extra resources or local organisations they can refer you to.

Get on Their Radar Early

By reaching out during pregnancy, you may be able to:

• Join waitlists for in-demand services
• Be flagged for priority programs (like sleep support or parenting groups)
• Access free community sessions from day one—like library rhyme time, playgroups, and parenting workshops

It also helps council teams plan better when they know a family with multiple babies is on the way!

Not All Councils Are Created Equal—And That’s Okay

We’ll be real with you—not every council is going to roll out a red carpet. Some are incredibly proactive, others… not so much.

Tip: If you don’t get a helpful answer the first time, don’t give up. Try a different department, or call back at a quieter time. Sometimes it just takes the right person.

And remember, if your local council doesn’t offer much, you might find similar support through your state government or local health network.

Let’s Share the Load (and the Wins!)

At Twinfo, we believe knowledge is power—and shared knowledge is even better. If you’ve contacted your local council and found a helpful service, freebie, or program, tell us! Post in the comments, drop us a DM, or tag us on socials. Your tip might be the lifeline another parent needs.

Expecting Twins or Triplets: Take Action Today And Call Your Council

Add it to your pre-baby checklist. One simple call could unlock support you didn’t even know existed.