Mercy Health will open Melbourne’s first maternity community hub later this year.
Running as a pilot program, it will operate out of the Utopia Refugee Health Clinic in Hoppers Crossing and provide culturally sensitive support to mothers and mothers-to-be.
Maternity community hubs are localised, community-based services that deliver pregnancy care in spaces that feel safe, familiar and culturally welcoming.
The hub will offer clinical antenatal care, education about pregnancy and birth and culturally tailored support to women and families throughout their maternity journey.
Services include regular midwifery check-ups, birth planning, parenting advice and links to allied health and social services.
The care will be delivered in languages other than English to reflect the needs of Wyndham’s growing and multi-ethnic population.
Mercy Health Foundation chief executive Rebecca MacFarling said the initiative is a great alternative to continuous hospital visits, which may feel intimidating to some women.
“This model will help build trust, improve communication and create continuity of care for women who face systemic and social barriers to accessing maternity services,” she said.
Ms MacFarling said it is all about providing culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) women a fair and safe start to motherhood.
“One in three babies in Australia is born to a woman from a CALD background, yet these women face significantly higher risks and poorer health outcomes,” she said.
“By supporting this initiative, donors and the wider community are helping change this statistic.
“It’s not just about healthcare; it’s about dignity, equity and creating a future where all children have the best start in life.”
