Midwifery
Midwifery in Western Australia
Midwifery can only be practised in Australia with a qualification from an education program accredited by a regulatory authority. The Nurses Board of Western Australia is the regulatory authority in Western Australia.
The entry point into midwifery studies in Western Australia is via the university sector. Midwifery courses are offered at postgraduate level by two universities in Western Australia:
Significant clinical experience is gained in clinical practicum in hospitals throughout the state.
Entry to Practice Requirements
Midwifery is the only discipline with specific entry to practice qualifications required under the Nurses' Act (1992). This means that in order to practise midwifery, as defined by the legislation, individuals must be registered as midwives with the regulatory authority (NBWA). Registration is conditional upon having satisfactorily completed a midwifery program recognised by the regulatory authority in which the midwife is applying to be registered. This may occur in a de facto sense through the process of mutual recognition.
Courses in Western Australia Leading to Initial Authority to Practise Midwifery
In Western Australia midwives become registered by successfully completing a bachelor degree in nursing (usually a 3 year full time program), followed by postgraduate studies in midwifery. There are currently two universities offering midwifery courses in Western Australia:
- Curtin University of Technology – Postgraduate Diploma in Midwifery
- Edith Cowan University – Postgraduate Diploma of Midwifery
The length of the courses vary, depending on the mode of study; for example, full time or part time. The most common arrangements are one academic year (full time) or three academic semesters (part time). Further information about course lengths can be obtained from the individual universities.
Clinical Placements
The clinical practice placements in Western Australia are via a 'salaried model' or an 'employment model'. In the employment model, students are employed as registered nurses in the maternity setting. Most clinical placements occur in major hospitals, with opportunities to gain experience in the provision of midwifery care for pregnant and postnatal women in the tertiary hospital, outer metropolitan, regional and rural health services; there are limited opportunities in the community midwifery area.
Scholarships
The Office of the Chief Nurse offers scholarships for nurses and midwives in recognition of the importance of professional development for the nursing and midwifery professions. Financial support in the form of scholarships are only available to nurses/midwives working in the Western Australian Health Industry.
Scholarships are for the purpose of study at a Western Australian university. The scholarships are awarded to assist in the payment of the cost of course fees.
Enhanced Role of the Midwife
Further Information
Kay Hyde,
Midwifery Director
Statewide Obstetric Support Unit
Email: Kay.Hyde@health.wa.gov.au
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