Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

The program covers the full scope of midwifery practice with an emphasis on culturally safe care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families. Core study areas include anatomy and physiology in pregnancy, antenatal and postnatal care, labour and birth management, newborn assessment, pharmacology for midwives, perinatal mental health, and public health approaches to maternal and child wellbeing.

Students undertake research methods and evidence-based practice units that develop skills in clinical decision-making, reflective practice and quality improvement. The course also includes dedicated content on cultural safety, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health perspectives, working with families and communities, and community-based models of care.

Practical learning is a major component: structured clinical placements take place across maternity units, birthing centres and community settings, including partnerships with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs). Simulation laboratory sessions prepare students for clinical scenarios and build technical skills in a supervised environment.

Typical modules and subjects

• Fundamentals of Midwifery Practice
• Pregnancy, Labour and Birth Care
• Postnatal and Newborn Care
• Pharmacology and Professional Responsibility
• Perinatal Mental Health and Family Wellbeing
• Research Methods and Evidence-Based Midwifery
• Culturally Safe Practice and Indigenous Health
• Community Midwifery and Continuity of Care Models
• Clinical Placement Blocks across hospital and community settings

Entry requirements

Admission is targeted to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants and includes academic and non‑academic criteria. Applicants are normally expected to have completed senior secondary studies or an equivalent qualification recognised by university admissions centres, or to hold a relevant VET qualification or previous tertiary study.

Selection typically considers a combination of academic results, a personal statement outlining commitment to midwifery and Indigenous health, and may include an interview. Applicants must meet professional and regulatory requirements for clinical placements, such as current immunisations, a National Police Check and any health or clearances required by placement partners.

ACU provides alternative pathways and support for applicants who demonstrate capacity and community connection but do not meet standard academic thresholds. Prospective students are advised to consult ACU’s Indigenous admissions and student support teams for guidance on eligibility and pathway options.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the relevant national midwifery regulator and can pursue work in public and private hospitals, birthing centres, community health services and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations. Career roles include hospital midwife, community midwife, continuity of care midwife, and roles delivering culturally safe maternal and child health services in urban, regional and remote settings.

With experience, midwives may move into specialist areas such as neonatal care, perinatal mental health, education, research, clinical leadership or program management. Graduates are particularly well placed to contribute to programs that improve maternal and infant health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU offers a cohort model that provides culturally responsive teaching and dedicated Indigenous student support services to foster a safe learning environment. The university has established partnerships with hospital maternity units and Aboriginal health services to provide diverse and meaningful clinical placement opportunities.

Students benefit from hands-on learning through simulation facilities and structured placement supervision, together with academic staff who have clinical and Indigenous health expertise. ACU also provides access to student support programs, mentoring and resources aimed at helping Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students succeed academically and professionally.

The Indigenous cohort structure emphasises community connection, cultural safety and pathways into midwifery practice that respect and respond to the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families.