Introducing a public homebirth program in Tasmania
12 Sep 2025
The proposed model aims to give women more choice in how and where they give birth, while also expanding professional opportunities for midwives. Similar programs already operate safely in other parts of Australia and have been shown to deliver positive outcomes for mothers and babies.
Health officials say a Tasmanian public homebirth model would provide safe, personalised and woman-centred care that is respectful and empowering. It would also allow midwives to work to their full scope of practice.
The consultation paper sets out the proposed criteria for the program and asks Tasmanians to share their views. Feedback will help shape the program’s design, principles and implementation.
Work on the model follows recommendations from the Select Committee on Reproductive, Maternal and Paediatric Health Services, which highlighted the need for greater choice, continuity of care, and respectful, evidence-based maternity services.
Consultations are open until 19 October 2025, and feedback can be provided through the Department of Health’s website.
Source: Tasmanian Department of Health
