This expression of interest process has now closed. Further updates will be published to this page in the future.

The Maternity in Focus Advisory Group and the Perinatal Mental Health Reference Group are looking for consumers who have accessed public maternity services in the ACT within the past 3 years. We are looking for a diverse range of representation including people with lived experience of perinatal mental health, disability, Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD), Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Intersex & Queer (LBGTIQ+) and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds.

The groups will be focused on delivering some of the actions identified in the Maternity in Focus: First Action Plan 2022-2025

People with lived experience can provide valuable insights into maternity health care and mental health initiatives and system changes. The personal experience and understanding of their journey can guide prevention planning, treatment and education, as well as contribute to improved care and outcomes with enhanced safety.

Members of the Maternity in Focus Advisory Group and Members of the Perinatal Mental Health Reference Group are to be inclusive, respectful and actively participate in representing all women, pregnant people and their families. The most important thing is that members have a strong desire to see the best maternity and perinatal care (i.e. from conception to first 2 years of the baby’s life) provided to the ACT community.

Lived Experience Members are expected to participate in meeting discussions and community consultations actively and constructively, while maintaining links with the community.

Members of the Advisory Group will be appointed for 12 months. The Advisory Group will meet once a quarter for a two-hour meeting. On occasion, members will be requested to attend out-of-session forums and workshops.

The Perinatal Mental Health Reference Group is currently being established with membership, appointment periods and meeting arrangements to be determined during the establishment process. The terms of reference for this group will be developed as part of this process.

We are also seeking to establish a pool of stakeholders to supplement the Advisory Group and who will be available to participate and collaborate in working groups to achieve the project goals or opt into discussions on topics relevant / of interest to them.