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As part of a 2-day conference held in Melbourne, Adam Clements presented on the NSW Government’s Birth Trauma Inquiry Final Report and Government Response to an audience of Australia-wide Obstetricians, Midwives and Lawyers who came together to hear developments in the area of obstetric medicine and the law.

The NSW Birth Trauma Inquiry followed a groundswell of public support into a significant public health issue, with over 28% of women in NSW characterising their birth as traumatic according to the Australian Birth Experience Study in 2021. Over 4000 submissions were received.

The presentation covered areas of particular interest following the 43 Government Recommendations, and a consideration of the Government Response overall. Links to the Final Report of the Inquiry, and the Government’s Response are below.

Areas of particular interest in the report include:

  • Recommendations for the NSW Government to implement more and expanded post-partum services including physiotherapy and psychology.
  • Increased investment in the obstetric workforce (including both obstetricians and midwives) to address workforce shortages
  • That investment occur in continuity of care models
  • That investment occur in education for parents, including in the antenatal period about the birthing experience and education about birthing plans (and offering free evidence based birthing plans)
  • That the NSW Government establish protocols for debriefing and psychological support for clinicians impacted by birth trauma

A significant reliance was placed in response on the NSW Blueprint for Action – Maternity Care in NSW which had been published last year, following commencement of investigations into the issue from 2018.

Although we don’t anticipate a lowering of the bar to access compensation for parents impacted by birth trauma, we welcome the recommendations to extend care for parents and clinicians, including psychological and physiotherapy supports for injured parents.

The presentation was well received by attendees and was a helpful opportunity to discuss these issues with both providers and colleagues, many of whom we interact with through medical negligence claims.