Tasmania is set to enhance its healthcare program by reviving the Graduate Diploma of Midwifery at the University of Tasmania, beginning next year. This initiative, rolled out by the re-elected Tasmanian Liberal Government, aims to provide residents with the opportunity to train as midwives locally, thereby contributing to the retention and growth of a skilled midwifery workforce in the state.
Health Minister Jacquie Petrusma emphasized the global challenges faced by health systems regarding midwifery staffing and noted that the Tasmanian Government has been proactive in tackling these issues. This includes implementing record recruitment strategies and offering various incentives such as grants, scholarships, and training for prospective midwives. Petrusma explained that restoring midwifery training at UTAS allows Tasmanians to pursue their career aspirations in their home state, which boasts a workforce of 645 registered midwives.
To further support families during maternity, the government is also advancing plans for a new Intensive Residential Parenting Unit at St John’s Park in New Town, dedicated to aiding parents encountering post-natal difficulties. Petrusma outlined that this six-bed facility will enable mothers and their babies to remain together while receiving specialized, intensive care focused on sleep, feeding, behavior, and perinatal mental health issues.
Additionally, the Tasmanian Government is making strides in establishing new services for families, highlighted by the introduction of the State’s first parenting hotline and the construction of a four-bed mums and bubs residential facility in the North.
The Minister underscored the importance of this election for creating a cohesive and efficient healthcare system, urging voters to choose a strong Liberal team with a clear agenda over a potential return to instability.
This initiative demonstrates a promising step towards addressing healthcare gaps in Tasmania, reflecting a commitment to fostering local talent and improving support for new families.