Tasmanians will be able to train to be midwives closer to home starting next year, under a re-elected Tasmanian Liberal Government.
The Graduate Diploma of Midwifery will be restored at the University of Tasmania. It will include a residential program to grow and retain a home-grown midwifery workforce in the State.
Minister for Health, Jacquie Petrusma, said globally, we know that health systems are experiencing significant midwifery workforce challenges.
"Our Government has already been addressing this issue head-on, with record recruitment and incentives, including grants, scholarships, support and training," Minister Petrusma said.
"By restoring midwifery training at UTAS, Tasmanians can follow their dream of becoming midwives here in the State.
"Midwives are the largest contributor to Tasmania's maternity workforce, with 645 midwives registered in our State."
We are ensuring mothers, babies, and families have the support they need during and after birth, with work already underway to deliver a new Intensive Residential Parenting Unit at St John's Park in New Town.
Minister for Health, Jacquie Petrusma, said the six-bed unit will support parents experiencing post-natal challenges in Southern Tasmania.
"The facility will allow mums and bubs to stay together while they receive intensive support in a fit-for-purpose, specialised residential setting for sleeping, feeding, behaviour and developing perinatal mental health concerns," Minister Petrusma said.
"This continues our focus on new services for families, including establishing the State's first parenting hotline and the four-bed mums and bubs residential facility under construction in the North.
"This election comes down to one choice: a strong Liberal team with a real plan or another merry-go-round of chaos and compromise.
"Let's get on with it.
"Let's finish the job for Tasmania."
