Released 19/07/2024
The ACT Government is investing in more health services in Canberra’s north, with community consultation now underway supporting a feasibility study for a new Birth Centre as part of the new northside hospital development.
The study’s findings will help inform what a freestanding, standalone or alongside midwife-led Birth Centre could look like as design continues for the new northside hospital campus in Bruce.
Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said the ACT Government is committed to improving public maternity services and meeting the needs of families in the ACT and surrounding region.
“We have heard that Canberrans want more birthing options in the ACT and more services in Canberra’s north. This study will give the Government a better understanding of what birthing models are most appropriate and what could be delivered as part of a new Birth Centre in Canberra’s north,” said Minister Stephen-Smith.
The feasibility study will review a range of birth centre models and is the first step in determining the Birth Centre’s physical location.
The ACT Government has begun targeted stakeholder consultation to complete the feasibility study. This includes engaging clinicians, carers, families, peak bodies and consumer representatives.
“Over the coming year, the ACT Government will undertake significant engagement with the wider Canberra community and workforce as we work to build the new northside hospital,” said Minister Stephen-Smith.
“This will be a modern and bigger hospital for patients, visitors and the workforce. It will provide more beds, a bigger emergency department and more services.”
The ACT Government has and will continue to invest in maternity services across the ACT, in our hospitals and the community.
This includes expanding the home birth program, progressing the Maternity in Focus First Action Plan and implementing phase two of nurse- and midwife-to-patient ratios.
The Birth Centre feasibility study is expected to be complete by late 2024.
- Statement ends -
Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases