Special birth kits for First Nations mums at hospital

FIRST Nations mothers who give birth at Bendigo Health will receive Cultural Birth Kits under a new initiative.

The kits are designed to celebrate culture while providing practical support for new mothers, and include a tote bag decorated with Aboriginal artwork, a newborn-sized black, white and red beanie knitted by local elders, as well as First Nations themed muslin wrap.

They also contain Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation health promotion resources tailored to Indigenous families.

Bendigo Health Culturally Safe Birthing Coordinator Tammy Nancarrow said the kits’ contents are more than just mere items – they honour culture, welcome new life, and create a safe space to discuss health promotion.

“The kits serve as proactive conversation starters, allowing the Aboriginal Services team to build connections with new mums,” she said.

“The culturally-identified resources within the kits make it easier for families to engage with the health information, whether about breastfeeding, newborn care or general wellbeing.”

Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officer Danika Dale, who helped develop the kits with colleague Jade Heavyside, described the idea as contributing to an overall feeling of being culturally safe at Bendigo Health for new First Nations mothers.

“It’s (similar to) when you go into a medical centre and you see a picture on the wall that’s Indigenous. You feel like you’re respected,” she said.

“Or, when new mums see our faces (on the ward) – if they know us in community, they’re like, ‘oh, thank god you’re here’.”

Ms Heavyside said it’s special to give mums and babies something precious just for them to ensure they feel loved.