MaMs is a continuity‑of‑care experience where a CDU midwifery student walks alongside you, your family and your community throughout pregnancy, birth and the early weeks with baby. This journey is grounded in respect, cultural safety, deep listening and your choices.
CDU has First Nations and non‑Indigenous midwifery students across Australia, learning in their own communities — including remote, rural, regional and urban areas.
For questions, feedback, or to find a student in your area, email us at midwifery@cdu.edu.au
Cultural safety at the Centre of Care
Your culture, your story and your community guide the experience.
Your student will:
- Listen deeply and respectfully
- Honour your cultural practices and preferences
- Work alongside your midwife and Aboriginal Health Worker
- Support your decisions and your pace
- Respect your connection to Country, kin and community
- Communicate clearly and calmly
- Follow your comfort at all times
Participation is free, voluntary and flexible. You can withdraw at any time.
About the program
What your student can offer?
Your MaMs student can:
- Attend antenatal visits
- Be on call for your labour and birth (if you choose)
- Visit you and baby after birth
- Yarn with you and take time
- Provide continuity, connection and support
- Help you understand decisions by discussing risks and benefits
- Work respectfully with your maternity care team
- Follow your cultural, community and family needs
Students are supervised by registered midwives, must follow Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia professional standards, and cannot provide clinical advice independently.
Why this shared journey matters to student midwives?
For First Nations students — and students learning in First Nations communities — this journey helps them learn:
- How culture, kinship and community shape maternity care
- How to provide safe, respectful, culturally responsive support
- How to build trust and partnership over time
- How to communicate clearly and respectfully
- How to work alongside Aboriginal Health Workers and midwives
- How continuity strengthens safety, confidence and connection
These continuity experiences are in addition to clinical placement.
What participation looks like?
A typical MaMs journey may include:
- A meet‑and‑greet
- A minimum of four antenatal appointments with your regular care provider
- Optional presence during labour and birth
- At least two postnatal visits
- Regular check‑ins
- Flexible communication based on your preferences
Consent Form
Women who wish to participate can complete the consent form and email it to:
[Download Consent Form – PDF]
Learning in community
CDU supports midwifery students to learn in their own communities, including:
- Remote communities
- Rural towns
- Regional centres
- Urban areas
- First Nations health services
- Community clinics
- Local hospitals and birthing units
Students may need to negotiate access with local hospitals or clinics depending on local policies.
First Nations women’s voices
Women often tell us they appreciate:
- Having someone who listens and takes time
- Feeling supported and respected
- A familiar face at appointments
- Someone who understands community and culture
- Clear communication and calm presence
- Support that feels connected, not rushed
Frequently asked questions
Can I withdraw at any time?
Yes. Participation in MaMs is completely voluntary. You can change your mind or withdraw at any time, for any reason, and your care will not be affected. Just send us an email at midwifery@cdu.edu.au
Will my student be at my birth?
Only if you choose. Your student will be on call for your labour and birth, but you decide whether you want them present. Your comfort guides everything.
Does this replace my midwife?
No. Your midwife and maternity care team remain responsible for your clinical care. Your student provides continuity, support and connection, learning alongside your midwife — not instead of them.
Is there a cost for participating?
There is no cost to participate in the MaMs continuity‑of‑care experience.
Are students supervised?
Yes. Students are supervised by registered midwives at all times and must follow NMBA professional standards, codes and guidelines.
What if my hospital doesn’t allow student visits?
Most hospitals and clinics welcome student involvement, occasionally others have restrictions. Your student will talk with you about what is possible in your area and may need to negotiate access with local services. If access is limited, your student may still support you in other ways.
Are CDU students available in my community?
CDU has midwifery students nationally, learning in their own communities — including rural, remote, regional and metropolitan areas. Email midwifery@cdu.edu.au to find out if a student is available near you.