The Victorian Government has applauded a major milestone for the state’s lifesaving Paediatric Infant Perinatal Emergency Retrieval (PIPER) service, which is celebrating its 50th year.
Minister for Health, Ingrid Stitt joined the PIPER team at the Royal Children’s Hospital to mark the milestone.
“For 50 years, PIPER has been there for Victorian families, helping babies, children and mothers get lifesaving specialist care when every minute counts,” said Minister Stitt.
“Whether you live in Melbourne or regional Victoria, every family deserves access to the best possible care when they need it most.
“Labor will always invest in the healthcare Victorian working families rely on.”
Since 1976, PIPER has delivered 24/7 emergency advice, referral and transport for families across the state. It’s operated by a statewide network of doctors, nurses, paramedics, care coordinators and support staff.
Demand for PIPER services has more than doubled over the past two decades, from 2,700 referrals in 2002 to more than 7,000 in 2025. In 2025 alone, PIPER coordinated more than 5,000 transfers, including more than 80 interstate transfers.
