The politics of midwifery in Australia: tensions, debates and opportunities

Abstract

Abstract The recent international resurgence of midwifery has involved the profession’s seeking to gain greater independence and the lessening of medical dominance. In such a context, issues currently facing Australian midwives are significant. This paper outlines the development of research questions with regard to midwives professional consciousness, and considers the structural context of maternity services. It then explores changing political consciousness and dilemmas. In particular, the emergence of an autonomous professional identity for midwives as articulated by the Australian College of Midwives Incorporated (ACMI), has not been straightforward. Unevenness of educational preparation and a projected shortage of midwives together with growing frustration at inadequate recognition of midwives’ distinctive knowledge and skills all pose challenges to policy moves to encourage a greater midwifery role in maternity car