11 June 2025 - Australia and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) are partnering with the Indonesian Ministry of Health and Ministry of National Development Planning to improve midwifery services across Indonesia, supporting the country’s efforts to reduce maternal and newborn mortality and prevent stunting.

Australian Deputy Ambassador to Indonesia, Gita Kamath and UNFPA Indonesia Representative, Hassan Mohtashami formalised Australia’s support for the Strengthening Health System through Midwifery Models of Care (STREAM) project.

This is the first commitment under the new Australia-Indonesia Partnership for Health Transformation, which was jointly announced by Prime Minister Albanese and President Prabowo during the Prime Minister’s recent visit to Indonesia.

Deputy Ambassador Kamath said midwives are at the heart of primary health care systems, especially for women and girls. “Strengthening the capacity of midwives is not only essential for saving the lives of mothers and babies – it’s a cornerstone of equitable, resilient health systems. Australia is proud to partner with UNFPA and the Government of Indonesia to support inclusive, sustainable health systems.”

“Investing in midwives is investing in life. UNFPA, alongside the Governments of Indonesia, Australia, and other partners, empowers these frontline heroes to ensure safer deliveries,”

said Hassan Mohtashami, UNFPA Indonesia Representative.

STREAM will promote evidence-based, woman-centred midwifery models of care as part of Indonesia’s broader health transformation agenda. With over 344,000 midwives nationwide, improving the quality and integration of midwifery services—especially in underserved areas—can significantly boost health outcomes for women and children.

For further information, please contact:

• Public-Affairs-JAKT@dfat.gov.au
• Dian Agustino (Communications Analyst, UNFPA Indonesia): agustino@unfpa.org