VIHSP turns 20!

13/03/2025

February 2025 marked 20 years of the Victorian Infant Hearing Screening Program (VIHSP). Administered by the Centre, VIHSP has conducted over 1.3 million screens and is dedicated to giving newborn babies the best start in life by detecting hearing loss early and ensuring families receive the support they need.

This success is a direct result of the dedication and hard work of over 150 amazing staff, who work tirelessly to make sure every newborn in Victoria gets their hearing screened, usually within days of being born.

At our anniversary celebration, we were fortunate to be joined by two very special guests: Reggie and Ray.

Both were screened by VIHSP as babies, leading to their diagnoses of profound hearing loss. Today they are thriving with cochlear implants. Listening to their inspiring stories and seeing the positive impact VIHSP has had on their lives was a powerful reminder of how the program continues to change lives for children and families.

Kristy and Ray Mooney, Melinda Barker (VIHSP Director), and Reggie and Jess Randall.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has contributed to VIHSP’s success over the past 20 years! From the screening teams, the managers, the project officers, the early support staff, the program support staff, and everyone else who has been part of this journey – your efforts have truly made a difference to so many lives. 

As we reflect on 20 years of success, we’re excited about what the future holds. Here’s to many more years of helping children thrive and making a lasting difference for families across Victoria.