Our history

Centre of Perinatal Excellence (COPE) was established in August 2013.  Following the growth and success of the perinatal program at beyondblue, our history is built upon strong foundations of research and development.

COPE’s conception

COPE-CRC_A3_back_r4COPE was established in response to the growth and success of Australia’s National Perinatal Depression Initiative (NPDI).  This led to the growing need for an organisation with a dedicated focus on the specific issues faced by women, men and their families during pregnancy and the year following birth. Further there is a recognised need to reduce the known personal, social and economic costs associated with undiagnosed and untreated perinatal mental health conditions.

Informed by the beyondblue Synopsis Report, COPE is led by our dedicated team, who transitioned from beyondblue in 2013.

COPE continues to work with governments, professional bodies in primary and maternity care, health professionals, NGOs, corporate groups and the community. Together, we will work to reduce the devastating impacts of these emotional and mental health conditions on our mothers, fathers and future generations.