The College continues its advocacy and involvement in consultations regarding rural and remote maternity services.  In a recent press release, College President Dr Ewen McPhee urged the Commonwealth and State governments to prioritise the needs of rural women and their families and act to improve access to rural and remote maternity service. Read a copy of the release on the ACRRM website.  

ACRRM strongly supports the retention of rural and remote maternity and birthing services.  This is a national and state issue which can significantly affect the health and wellbeing of rural women and their families, and the economic and social fabric of rural and remote communities. 

The loss or downgrading of maternity services in rural towns not only impacts on maternal safety.  It also diminishes the overall quality and scope of health services for rural and remote communities.

Currently the College is actively contributing to the development of the National Strategic Framework for Maternity Services; engaging with the Queensland Rural Maternity Services Taskforce; monitoring a review of maternity care policy in NSW; and providing feedback in the development of a governance framework for Victorian maternity services.

This complements our continuing work to promote the implementation of the National Rural Generalist Pathway, which will be integral to securing high quality and sustainable rural and remote maternity and birthing services.

College submissions to the National Strategic Framework for Maternity Services and the Queensland Rural Maternity Taskforce are available on our website.