In Australia, the birth options available to women are a very political issue. Women who choose to birth in hospital (including hospital run birth centres) bear little expense as the cost of their care is funded by a combination of state and federal government funding. However, little (and often no) funding or financial support is available to those seeking a birth out of hospital.

Furthermore, the number one issue reducing the accessibility of out of hospital options is the difficulty midwives have in securing appropriate insurance, and the fact that the fee for their wonderful service is not currently covered by Medicare or by private health insurance.

Thus lobbying politicians and decision makers at every level is a key responsibility for The Natural Birth Education & Research Centre, as we aim to change this situation and make natural birth options available to all women everywhere.

For information on how you can become an advocate for Natural Birth.