Midwifery workforce review to tackle growing industry concerns

The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) has partnered with the The Macfarlane Burnet Institute for Medical Research and Public Health (the Burnet Institute) and colleagues to conduct a comprehensive review of the midwifery workforce amid concerns that growth is stalling in the midwifery profession.

Titled ‘Midwifery Futures’, the in-depth review is being undertaken to set the foundation for the continued growth and sustainability of the midwifery profession.

Professor Caroline Homer AO and her team from the Burnet Institute, University of Technology Sydney, Curtin University and the WA Child and Adolescent Health Service will engage with midwives, education providers, professional bodies, governments, regulators and the public to examine the current state of the midwifery workforce from a range of perspectives.

“Midwifery is at a very important point and how we react in the next decade will be critical,” Homer said.

The final report is expected to provide a map of the future supply and demand of midwives in Australia with a series of recommendations to inform the NMBA, government, employers and education providers and ensure the continuation of the profession.

The analysis will also include a review of the Registration standard: Endorsement for Scheduled Medicines for Midwives to ensure it aligns with current public and practitioner regulatory expectations. Any updates to the endorsement will be consulted on publicly before being implemented.

‘Midwifery Futures’ will undertake a literature review, analysis and heavy consultation with stakeholders before a final report is delivered in mid-2024.

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