Keeping families under the one roof and close to the hospital.
Families often have to travel far from home to receive the medical care their child needs. This can mean spending large amounts of time and money traveling to hospital, instead of spending it as a family. Our 19 Houses across Australia provide a comfortable alternative for families, making it easier for them to come together and look after their ill or injured child.
We understand that being away from home for long periods of time can put families under financial pressure. That’s why our accommodation is free for families with a child who is ill or injured. In our Houses, families are also able to benefit from the compassionate support of our volunteers and staff, as well as being able to connect with other families who are navigating a similar journey.
We have locations within footsteps of major children’s hospitals across Australia, meaning support has never been easier to find.
Our Houses are accommodation for families with an ill or injured child. Houses offer families a comfortable place to stay with support from staff, volunteers and other families with shared experiences. The Houses include private family bedrooms, many with ensuites and communal kitchens, lounges, quiet spaces and play areas.
There are currently 19 Houses around the country.
The cornerstone of our work, Ronald McDonald House Programs are located in close proximity to major children’s hospitals in Australia. They provide accommodation for ill or injured child and their families.
Families caring for children who are ill or injured or mothers going through high-risk pregnancies are eligible to stay at a House.
You can directly contact the House closest to the treating hospital to make an enquiry. Referrals to stay at a Ronald McDonald House can also be made by your child’s medical or social work team.
Our Ronald McDonald Houses try to accommodate the needs of families where possible, however this is always subject of availability. Priority is given to families whose children have been recently diagnosed, seriously injured or who require emergency treatment, and families traveling long distances from their home. Local priority criteria may apply.
Each House varies in size, so please contact your local House to talk to our friendly staff about how they may help your family.
At RMHC Australia, we respect and acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land, skies and waterways on which we gather today. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present. We celebrate the resilience and strength of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people, the next generation of storytellers, Custodians, and leaders. We are honoured to support and work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples including families with ill or injured children, so together, we can create a brighter, healthier future for every child.
Parents don’t know when their child will need medical help. But they should know they can always access the care they need. And with your help, we can strive to support them all throughout their journey.