UQ wins tender for Queensland Centre for Mothers and Babies

Strictly embargoed until 1am 20^th December 2008

Health Minister Stephen Robertson said a centre of excellence for mothers and babies is one step closer with the Government awarding a tender for this important component of the maternity reform agenda in Queensland

“I am pleased to announce The University of Queensland is the successful tenderer, with the centre due to open next year.

“The Queensland Centre for mothers and babies will provide up-to-date information and resources for mothers, babies and their care givers.

“The centre will also advise the Government on how to improve maternity services and care choices across the State.

“It will have a commitment to research to ensure Queensland mothers and babies have the best start in life.

The establishment of an independent centre for mothers and babies was a major recommendation of the ‘Re-Birthing’ report into maternity services in Queensland.

“The State Government supported this recommendation and today’s announcement shows we are well on our way to delivering this centre of excellence.

Welcoming the Minister’s announcement, UQ Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Greenfield said it recognised the great power of social science research to assist families and communities in very practical ways.

He congratulated the research team, led by Head of School of Psychology, Professor Christina Lee.

Professor Lee said the centre will improve maternity care through a consumer-focused emphasis on optimal choices, sharing of evidence-based information, and continuity of care

“It is critical to promote mutual understanding, respect and trust between and among care providers, consumers and other stakeholders in maternity care,” she said.

“We want to ensure that all women can access the best possible pregnancy, birth and postnatal care and support according to their needs and preferences.”

Mr Robertson said Queensland Health has carried out significant reforms over the past three years to improve the quality and safety of maternity services, and has implemented strategies to build the clinical workforce .

“The centre will assist in taking this to the next stage by providing more information and resources to mothers and their families and working with Queensland Health to identify best-practice changes.

The Queensland Government has allocated $7 million over four years for the centre.

Media Contact: Minister’s office Martin Philip 3225 2680

UQ Fiona Kennedy 3365 1384/ 0413 380 012