The need for qualified midwives in Australia continues to grow, as the demand for maternal care services remains strong across the country

With a national focus on improving health outcomes for mothers and babies, the profession of midwifery is not only a rewarding career but one that also promises long-term job security. 

Now, registered nurses have the opportunity to advance their careers with the University of Notre Dame Australia’s Graduate Diploma of Midwifery, newly on offer at its Melbourne Clinical School, based in Werribee. This postgraduate qualification provides a comprehensive pathway into the rewarding field of maternal and neonatal care, addressing the growing demand for skilled midwives in Australia. 

Designed for registered nurses seeking a career shift or professional development, the Graduate Diploma of Midwifery equips students with the advanced skills, knowledge and clinical experience needed to deliver high quality care to women and newborns.  

“Our program ensures that, in addition to being clinically proficient, graduates can deliver compassionate care tailored to the diverse needs of women and families,” said Professor Michelle Campbell, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Melbourne and Regional Hubs. 

“The curriculum is structured to provide a deep understanding of the physiological, emotional and social aspects of childbirth, offering students a broad range of knowledge—from antenatal and postnatal care to complex obstetric conditions.”  

The program is accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC) and the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia, meaning graduates are eligible to register as midwives with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra). This accreditation ensures the program meets the high standards required for professional practice in Australia and prepares students for a successful career in midwifery.  Kyra, a current Midwifery student says, “The practical side that Notre Dame offers enhances my confidence and skills to become a great midwife”. 

Significant aspects of the program include clinical placements, blended learning, and online theoretical components. Students gain hands-on experience in both public and private healthcare settings, including hospitals, birth centres and community health clinics. These placements provide real-world exposure to a wide variety of maternity care scenarios and allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical context. The program’s lectures and tutorials are live streamed and recorded for students’ convenience. Students attend block weeks at the beginning of each semester, then are out in clinical placements for fourshifts a week.  

Notre Dame offers flexible study options, ensuring the program is accessible to a wide range of students cancomplete the diploma in 18 months,

Notre Dame’s approach to education emphasises small class sizes and personalised learning. Students benefit from close interaction with highly qualified staff, who are all experienced midwives themselves. The University’s strong focus on mentorship and support ensures that students can confidently develop their skills and knowledge in a safe, nurturing environment. 

“I chose to study at Notre Dame because, having worked with students in my role as a registered nurse, I felt that Notre Dame students were the best educated and prepared for placements,” said Christian, a current Midwifery student. 

Upon graduation, students can expect strong employment prospects, with opportunities to work in a variety of settings, including public and private hospitals, community health services and private practice. 

Midwives play a pivotal role in improving outcomes for women and babies and, as a result, there are increasing opportunities for career advancement in areas like leadership, research and education. Graduates of Notre Dame’s program is equipped to meet these demands, with many going on to further studies, such as a Master of Midwifery, to deepen their expertise. 

Notre Dame is renowned for its high-quality education, underpinned by the University’s values of care, integrity and compassion. The Graduate Diploma of Midwifery provides students with the technical and clinical skills they need, but beyond this, it helps them develop the personal attributes essential for working in midwifery. The University’s ethos aligns with the profession’s focus on holistic, woman-centred care, making Notre Dame an ideal choice for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the field of maternity care. 

Notre Dame Melbourne is open for application in 2025. Find out more at: https://www.notredame.edu.au/programs/school-of-nursing/postgraduate/graduate-diploma-of-midwifery