Substance Use in Pregnancy and Parenting Service

​Substance Use in Pregnancy and Parenting Service (​SUPPS) is a free NSW Health service for pregnant women, new parents, babies and families who may be affected by alcohol and other drug use.

​We understand that pregnancy and early parenting can be a challenging time, and getting the right support can make a big difference. SUPPS helps families connect with the care, information and services they need during pregnancy and the early years of their child's life, supporting the health and wellbeing of both parents and children.

SUPPS teams bring together a range of health professionals with expertise in pregnancy care, alcohol and other drugs, mental health, newborn care, child and family health, and social support. Accessing support early in pregnancy can help improve outcomes for both parents and babies.​

​​Family-centred care

SUPPS works alongside families in a respectful, caring and non-judgmental way. With an understanding that every family's situation is unique, SUPPS workers focus on building strengths, supporting parents to make informed choices, and helping them achieve their goals. They help parents connect with health care, treatment programs, parenting support and other services that can make a positive difference for the whole family.​

​What support does SUPPS provide?

Services may vary across NSW, but SUPPS commonly provides:

  • Understanding your needs and working with you to create a care plan during pregnancy and after your baby's birth.
  • Providing information and support about alcohol, tobacco, vaping, cannabis, prescription medicines and other drugs during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
  • Supporting you to reduce the risks and impacts of substance use, including help with withdrawal management, opioid treatment, and referrals to treatment or rehabilitation services if needed.
  • Connecting you with specialist pregnancy and postnatal care, working closely with maternity services.
  • Providing follow-up care and support for babies who may have been affected by alcohol or other drug exposure during pregnancy.
  • Linking you with other services, including mental health support, housing assistance, family support, domestic and family violence services, and child and family health services.
  • Offering information, guidance and support for partners, carers and other family members.
  • Helping you find, access and navigate the health and community services that are​ right for you and your family.​

​How to access SUPPS

SUPPS is available in most areas of NSW for pregnant women, parents and families who would like support with alcohol or other drug use during pregnancy or the early parenting years. ​

​​For women, parents and families

If you would like support, speak with your doctor, midwife or other healthcare provider about a referral to your local SUPPS service or contact your local public drug and alcohol service intake line and ask to be connected to a SUPPs service in your area.

You can also speak to the Alcohol and Other Drugs Information Service (ADIS) for more information on 1800 250 015​. ADIS provides 24-hour 7 day a week telephone counselling, support, referrals and information. ADIS counsellors are trained to work with people who are concerned about their own alcohol and drug use, as well as callers who are concerned about their family or friends. ADIS is a free service which is available to all residents of NSW.

​For health professionals

For referral information and support, contact your local public drug and alcohol service intake line or the ADIS on 1800 250 015.​

Health professionals can access the Clinical Guidance for the Management of Substance Use in Pregnancy, Birth and the Postnatal Period​ for information on evidence-based care, assessment and treatment approaches used within NSW Health when supporting pregnant women who use alcohol, tobacco or other drugs.

Current as at: Thursday 17 September 2026