EXPANSION works of the Moort Boodjari Mia at St John of God Midland Public Hospital have been completed, marking a crucial development in providing culturally secure maternity health care to Indigenous women in Perth’s east.
Moort Boodjari Mia, a dedicated service offering culturally sensitive maternity care and education, has seen a notable increase in both referrals and registrations over the past year.
The growing demand highlights the critical need for specialised Aboriginal maternity services in the region, and access to culturally secure midwifery care is essential for improving outcomes in maternal and neonatal health.
By enabling women to engage with the service at earlier stages of pregnancy, the facility is enhancing care for pregnancies and effectively managing co-morbidities, leading to better overall health outcomes.
The Moort Boodjari Mia team offers comprehensive support throughout pregnancy, using Aboriginal-specific resources and involving Aboriginal caregivers alongside professional midwives.
This approach ensures that families are engaged in a culturally responsive manner, recognising the significant role of grandmothers and aunties in fostering a nurturing environment for child’s upbringing.
The program's design integrates Aboriginal values and practices with a blend of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal health professionals, creating a holistic, woman-centered continuum of care, supporting women through their pregnancy journey with the backing of their immediate family, community, and a dedicated team of health experts.
Hospital chief executive officer, Paul Dyer said the expansion of Moort Boodjari Mia’s facilities significantly boosts the service’s capacity to deliver high-quality care to a growing population.
“This achievement highlights the positive outcomes of strong community partnerships, exemplified by the collaborative efforts of East Metropolitan Health Service, the Stan Perron Charitable Foundation, and St John of God Midland Public Hospital,” he said.
Health and Mental Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson visited the facility upon completion and chatted with members of the team as they prepared to welcome new and expectant mothers back into the expanded space.
The official opening featured traditional Aboriginal dancers and a Welcome to Country performed by talented Noongar Elder and local artist, Aunty ‘Neta’ Knapp.
