***Video grabs from Minister Park available HERE***
AN EXPANDED midwifery service has launched at Lismore Base Hospital, providing more women and families in Northern NSW with access to high-quality midwifery continuity of care.
Under the expanded Midwifery Antenatal and Postnatal Service (MAPS) model of care, women can receive care from a known primary midwife to support them throughout their pregnancy and up to two weeks after birth.
The service is led by a Clinical Midwifery Specialist, and consists of a dedicated team of five midwives, who work closely with obstetric, paediatric, and allied health professionals.
Since the program launched in late September 2025, 293 women at Lismore Base Hospital have chosen to take part in this model. As of 31 March 2026, 120 babies have been born.
The expanded MAPS model complements other models of care provided at Lismore Base Hospital, such as the Midwifery Group Practice model, providing increased access to midwifery continuity of care.
The Minns Labor Government has invested $44.8 million in maternity care to support increased access to midwifery continuity of care models, including funding for an additional 53 full-time equivalent midwives in regional NSW.
Women interested in joining the MAPS model of care are encouraged to speak to their GP or call the Lismore Base Hospital Antenatal Clinic on 02 6629 4646.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park:
“We want all women in NSW to have access to world-class maternity care, no matter where they live. This expansion is an important step in supporting women with additional care choices.
“This model of care is proven to improve the experiences for women, and I’m proud to see it expanding into regional areas like Northern NSW.
“We are committed to increasing access to midwifery continuity of care across the state, ensuring mothers, babies, and families have the support they need from the very beginning.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin:
“It is wonderful to see the benefits already from the expanded midwifery services at Lismore Base Hospital.
“Women’s health organisations have long advocated for this, for a woman to have skilled and compassionate midwifes alongside them throughout the pregnancy, birth and into the early weeks of the baby’s life.
“This is important support for the woman, the baby and the family.”
Quotes attributable to NNSWLHD District Manager, Maternity Services Fiona Minnis:
“Current evidence shows midwifery-led services enhance outcomes for women and babies. Families are more satisfied with their care, with midwives reporting fewer complications and better breastfeeding outcomes.
“Having a known midwife builds a trusted therapeutic relationship. Communication between women and their midwives is strengthened, which improves pregnancy and postnatal experiences.
“We’re excited to bring this service to women and their families in Lismore and surrounds.”
