What they do
Midwives provide care and advice to women during pregnancy, labour and childbirth. Midwifery tasks include assessing progress and recognising warning signs of abnormal and potentially abnormal pregnancies. They provide advice on nutrition, and conduct health education classes to promote the health of mothers and babies.
There are approximately 3000 midwives registered in Western Australia, the majority of who work in public and private hospitals within the metropolitan area and major regional centres.
Working conditions
Midwives usually work according to a rotating seven day roster which includes morning, afternoon and night shifts, weekends and public holidays.
Registered midwives may work in public and private hospitals, community and home-based services including doctors' surgeries, community health centres, youth and women's shelters, and remote and rural areas.
Midwives are also employed in nursing agencies, international aid agencies and the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Many are self-employed and manage their own businesses, hours of work and caseloads.
Tools and technologies
Midwives are skilled in the use of complex medical equipment including electronic foetal heart monitors, IV lines and equipment for resuscitation.
How do I become one?
Education and training
To become a midwife, you usually need to study a degree in midwifery or nursing, followed by a postgraduate qualification in midwifery.
Most universities in Western Australia offer relevant courses. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information.
Required registration and licensing
To work as a midwife in Western Australia, you will need to obtain registration from the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia. You will also need to hold a current Working with Children Check (WWC Check). Visit the Working with Children website for information on how to apply for a WWC Check.