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Friday marked a momentous day for 11 newly registered midwives in Tasmania who are beginning their careers in maternity services across the State.
At a special ceremony in Hobart, these midwives from across Tasmania were congratulated following their graduation from studies in a Bachelor of Midwifery and welcomed to roles in our health services.
Supported by the Department of Health and in collaboration with Tasmanian public and private maternity services, the University of Southern Queensland has delivered this program in Tasmania since 2017. The program is a two-year fast track degree course, which is open to Tasmanian registered nurses.
It is pleasing to see that interest in becoming a midwife in Tasmania has grown exponentially in the past few years. These midwives are the fifth cohort of Tasmanian midwifery students to complete their Bachelor of Midwifery program studies with the University of Southern Queensland. Since 2017, more than 100 of the State’s registered nurses are either currently studying or have completed their studies to become a midwife.
In addition to studying the theoretical elements of the course, students also work in clinical placements at Tasmanian maternity services in both the public and private sector supported by local midwives. Residential schools are held locally, with students consolidating their learning and skills development through simulation and practice support.
Secretary of the Department of Health, Kathrine Morgan-Wicks, congratulated the graduates on their outstanding achievement.
“Friday's ceremony was a proud moment for these newly registered midwives and their family and friends, as they gather together to celebrate their achievements,’’ Ms Morgan-Wicks said.
“Midwives play such an important role in our health system in supporting women and their families through the experience of pregnancy, childbirth and early parenting.
“The pathway we have available to midwifery students in Tasmania continues to be a great success with increasing interest in becoming a midwife in Tasmania.
“I extend my best wishes to our new midwives as they embark on their careers and thank you to all our staff who have played a part in supporting these midwives during their studies.”