Midwifery education: Understanding the impact of colonisation on the wellbeing of the First People of Australia

Introduction: Midwifery Education Programs in Australia are required have a designated unit that specifically addressing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ history, health, wellness and culture. Midwifery practice issues relevant to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities are also appropriately embedded in other subjects across the curriculum. Approach: A descriptive qualitative data analysis was undertaken on the responses from two cohorts of students (60). Midwifery students in one unit within their midwifery program were required as part of their assessment to respond to questions on an on -line discussion forum. Findings: The analysis identified that the majority of students valued the opportunity to discuss the question and understood why this topic should be include in midwifery curricula. However there were one or two who differed as they felt that all cultures needed to have equal dialogue demonstrating a lack of understanding of the impact of colonisation on the first people of Australia.