New virtual emergency care program expands for families in Western Australia

Families across Western Australia now have access to a new paediatric emergency‑care option at home, as the WA Virtual Emergency Department (WAVED) expands to include children. This initiative, launched by the Government of Western Australia and now operating as “WAVEDKids”, forms part of the state Government’s reform of emergency health services. 

Parents or carers who call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 may, depending on initial triage, be offered a WAVEDKids tele‑consult instead of being directed to a hospital emergency department (ED). The pathway involves a senior emergency nurse followed by a doctor. 

The service is delivered by senior emergency doctors and nurses who already work in hospital emergency departments, ensuring the virtual care aligns with in‑hospital standards. 

The rollout is staged: initially state‑wide availability on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10:30 am to 8:00 pm, with further expansion as demand grows.

Since the launch of WAVED more broadly, more than 10,000 virtual consults have been delivered and around 70 per cent of those patients were able to remain at home. Western 

For families with young children, often navigating the fine line between needing urgent care and managing less acute but still concerning health situations, WAVEDKids offers a feasible alternative to the traditional ED trip. Health Minister Meredith Hammat emphasised that:

For ECEC services and families within their communities, the availability of WAVEDKids has practical implications:

• It alleviates pressure on families deciding whether to seek immediate hospital care or wait. This supports children’s timely access to expert assessment and can provide educators and family services with a referral pathway.
• It may reduce unexpected disruptions for services when children require immediate attention, as tele‑consultation may allow for clearer planning and follow‑through.
• It aligns with broader system shifts toward integrated, community‑based, and virtual health solutions, important when considering the wellness of children in early years settings and the supports families may need.

How early childhood services can engage

• Inform families: Include information about WAVEDKids in your parent communications or induction materials so families can explore this option when required.
• Support planning: If a child’s health raises concern, a service can support the family to make informed decisions about tele‑consultation versus on‑site or hospital care.
• Link with health navigation: Services can incorporate WAVEDKids into recommendations when discussing health needs with families—especially where access to GPs or transport may be limited.
• Stay updated: The rollout is staged. Monitor updates from the WA Department of Health about expanding availability or hours.

The launch of WAVEDKids reflects the Government’s strategy to modernise health care, enhance access and ensure emergency departments remain available for those who need them most. The service is delivered through the State Health Operations Centre and forms a key component of the Government’s broader plan for emergency care reform.

As online and virtual models of care become more embedded, early childhood services should recognise these shifts as part of the broader ecosystem of child health and wellbeing. By equipping families, supporting navigation and connecting early years settings with health pathways, the sector contributes to seamless support for children and families.

Next steps for services

• Include a segment about WAVEDKids in your next staff meeting or newsletter communicating to educators and leadership that are aware of the service and its relevance for families.
• Update your service’s health information packs or parent handbooks to reference WAVEDKids, including the number 1800 022 222 and service hours.
• Consider establishing a protocol for services to support families with children requiring urgent attention, noting that tele‑consultation may be an option, so that transitions between service care and health systems are smooth.
• Encourage families to keep contact details and relevant health history accessible so that if a WAVEDKids consult is required, the process is efficient.