Birthing on Country Project

RESEARCH PROFILE

Colleen Kelly

Birthing on Country Project

Colleen Kelly (Yamatji) is a Registered Nurse with expertise in Indigenous health, education leadership and health equity. She is a Senior Research Fellow in the Health and Social Care Unit.

First Peoples' Health and Wellbeing (FPHW) and HSCU have joined forces to introduce a Birthing on Country Model in Melbourne, responding to the pressing demand for culturally appropriate maternity services in Victoria's Bayside Peninsula amidst a burgeoning Indigenous population. Led by Aboriginal Research Investigator Colleen Kelly (Yamatji), this initiative prioritises Indigenous knowledges and self-determination, fostering direct community involvement through yarning circles to collaboratively shape the model.

FPHW's collaboration with HSCU is in alignment with the RISE framework (Kildea & Roe 2022), underscoring its dedication to enhancing outcomes for Indigenous women, infants, and families. Grounded in cultural principles and community needs, the model strives for seamless care continuity and comprehensive support for expectant mothers. This endeavour marks a significant stride toward equitable and culturally responsive maternity care, showcasing inclusive healthcare practices.

First Peoples' Health and Wellbeing stands as a vibrant Aboriginal Community Controlled Health organisation committed to delivering culturally safe primary healthcare services to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Peoples and their families in Naarm (Melbourne).

For more information: Colleen.Kelly@monash.edu