Pregnancy and Infant Loss

Ryan acknowledged the devastating impact of pregnancy loss and commended organisations like Red Nose and the Stillbirth Centre of Research Excellence. Ryan emphasised the need for improved hospital protocols, bereavement counselling, and culturally safe care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Ryan argued for greater continuity of care in the public maternity system and highlighted the closure of private maternity units as a concern for patient choice and access.

Witty shared her personal experience of pregnancy loss to illustrate the profound grief and societal silence surrounding the issue. Witty argued that awareness must be matched with action, including fit-for-purpose bereavement leave and access to culturally safe services. Witty stressed the importance of validating grief and supporting community groups that provide practical assistance during difficult times.

McCormack shared personal and community stories of stillbirth to highlight the enduring nature of such grief. McCormack specifically advocated for proper funding for Vilomah Community, an organisation providing wraparound services in the Riverina district. McCormack suggested that referrals to such support programs should be compulsory after stillbirth to ensure families have access to healing and recovery resources.

Templeman detailed government investments, including $62 million over five years for healthy pregnancy measures and data collection. Templeman highlighted specific initiatives such as funding for Red Nose Australia's Healing Through Community projects and research into placental health tests like the TIM TAMs study. Templeman also reiterated the importance of the Fair Work Amendment (Baby Priya's) Bill 2025 and acknowledged the grief associated with IVF failures.