A freestanding birth centre is a home-like environment, with a natural birth supported by a known midwife.
Evidence shows that the further a birth centre is from a hospital, the better the birth outcomes, and the fewer unnecessary interventions.
This is super important because Canberra has the highest c-section rate in the country. Of course, some of those are necessary, life-saving procedures. But the WHO says that rate should be 15%, not 50%.
Women and birthing people want options. A hospital is one important option - of course. But the missing option in Canberra is a Freestanding Birth Centre.
The Government responded to community pressure by commissioning a feasibility study, which recommended a standalone birth centre.
BUT NOW THEY’VE BACKTRACKED
The new birth centre will be on the ground floor of the hospital, and will only have two beds - the same number we already have.
This is NOT what the community asked for. But...
Since Jo Clay MLA asked questions about it, the Minister has said the design is NOT finalised and she has asked officials to do more work.
Community pressure works. Add your voice to this campaign, and share it to help get Canberra a freestanding birth centre.