NMBA thanks midwives on International Day of the Midwife

05 May 2017

Today the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) acknowledged the International Day of the Midwife and thanked the midwives of Australia for their contribution to the safe care of people and their babies.

The International Day of the Midwife is held on 5 May each year and this year’s theme for the day is ‘Midwives, mothers and families: Partners for life!’

‘Midwives form strong, supportive partnerships with individuals, but also with families and the wider community,’ said NMBA Chair, Associate Professor Lynette Cusack.

‘Those partnerships are the foundation of safe, respectful care that brings new lives into the world. On behalf of the NMBA, I’d like to thank the 32,817 midwives who offer our communities these vital services.’

The NMBA sets the national standards, codes and guidelines that midwives and nurses must meet to be registered in Australia.

Associate Professor Cusack said that the NMBA was continuing to lead evidence-based reviews of midwifery standards, codes and guidelines, including open consultation with the profession and the public.

‘Deakin University is currently reviewing the new Midwife standards for practice on behalf of the NMBA, to ensure that the standards are contemporary, protect the public and are suitable for midwives in all contexts of practice.

‘The new standards will open for public and professional consultation later this year.’

Associate Professor Cusack said that the NMBA continues to improve its support for midwives to practise safely.

‘This year has seen the launch of Nurse & Midwife Support – the first national health support program specifically for midwives and nurses.

‘Nurse & Midwife Support offers confidential, independent advice and referral on health issues to the midwifery profession. It’s a great service, which helps our midwives to care for themselves so they can continue caring for others.’

Nurse & Midwife Support is an independent service which can be reached 24 hours a day on 1800 667 877.

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