Recently, the Government announced its intention to undertake a Review of Maternity Services. The Review will be led by the Commonwealth Chief Nurse and Midwifery Officer, Ms Rosemary Bryant.

The Government has advised that the Review is the first step in developing a comprehensive plan for maternity services into the future.

The Review will:

• canvass a wide range of issues relevant to maternity services, including antenatal services, birthing options, postnatal services up to six weeks after birth, and peer and social support for women in the perinatal period;
• ensure that all interested parties have an opportunity to participate; and
• inform the development of a National Maternity Services Plan.

Interested parties were asked to lodge submissions by 31 October 2008. The AMA, along with a range of other medical bodies, has lodged a submission which is available below. We understand the Review has received a large number of submissions and is now in the process of publishing these submissions on its website. Further information is available http://www.health.gov.au/maternityservicesreview

The Minister is expected to make further announcements in late December 2008.