May 5 is International Day of the Midwife. The Australian College of Midwives acknowledges midwives for the important work they do every day, supporting women and families through life changing experiences and providing maternal and newborn healthcare.
The theme for IDM 2025 is ‘Midwives: Critical in Every Crisis’ recognising midwives’ as essential first responders during crises. Midwives can deliver critical care in almost every setting, rapidly distribute resources and information, and ensure continuity of care after the crisis. Midwives have an ability to continue delivering care under pressure and in the most difficult circumstances and we acknowledge the strength and commitment of all individuals who make up this vital profession worldwide.
Midwifery in Australia has seen some important developments over the last 12 months. Midwives’ working to full scope of practice has been recognised through the Unleashing the potential of our health work force review and primary maternity care is being prioritised which has flow on benefits for rural and remote families. Importantly, a homebirth insurance solution to cover midwives providing intrapartum care in the home has been implemented, with a government backed product coming online later in the year.
This year ACM will continue to advocate for midwives, contributing to the National Maternity Workforce Strategy 2026–2036, and looks forward to the re-elected Labor Government election commitment to take the profession into the future, stronger than ever with a National Midwifery Strategy and a Commonwealth Chief Midwife.
ACM President Dr Zoe Bradfield said “today is a day for celebration, for midwives to reflect on the vital role they play in communities and for women and families to express their thanks.”