April 1st, 2026Stronger and more inclusive healthcare
The state government is building a stronger, more inclusive health system that works for all Victorians.
This means putting Aboriginal women and their families at the centre of care – making sure it’s free, culturally safe and close to home.
Minister Mary-Anne Thomas has announced a $15.8 million boost to expand Koori Maternity Services.
The funding will support 10 Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) right across Victoria.
It includes services in Bendigo, Ballarat, Melbourne, Lakes Entrance and Albury Wodonga.
Aboriginal mothers and their babies deserve the same health outcomes as any other mother and child in Victoria.
The goal of the services is to ensure culturally safe and high-quality pregnancy care, with the following outcomes:
- More Aboriginal women access antenatal care earlier in their pregnancy
- Fewer Aboriginal women smoke during pregnancy
- Fewer Aboriginal babies are born early
- Fewer Aboriginal babies die during pregnancy or soon after birth.
Care delivered by our ACCHOs is grounded in culture, connection and kinship.
It is also delivered by clinicians who understand their community, their needs and their experiences.
For more information, please visit health.vic.gov.au/patient-care/aboriginal-maternity-services.
