Select Committee into Stillbirth in South Australia
The extent and impact of stillbirth in South Australia will be the focus of a significant new inquiry aimed at reducing loss and better supporting women and families.
And you can now have your say!
Still Aware plays a crucial role in raising awareness and providing education about stillbirth prevention, a vital yet often overlooked issue in public health. Through its dedicated efforts, the organisation empowers expectant parents with life-saving information about safe pregnancy practices, while also advocating for improved healthcare policies and services. By focusing on both prevention and support, Still Aware not only helps to reduce the incidence of stillbirth but also provides critical emotional and practical support for families.
The organisation's work has contributed significantly to increasing awareness, improving clinical practices and creating a more informed, compassionate response to stillbirth, ultimately saving lives and fostering a supportive community for families during an incredibly difficult time.
About the Inquiry
Member for Newland Olivia Savvas has successfully moved a motion to establish a parliamentary inquiry to examine the prevalence, causes and effects of stillbirth and how to enhance supports.
Ms Savvas has already met with medical experts in this field from the Women's and Children's Hospital, as well as community support groups, to hear about the work that is already underway in this space, and how a parliamentary inquiry could assist further.
The committee will investigate and report on stillbirth in South Australia, including:
- Best practice stillbirth prevention education and awareness programs for expectant parents
- Public education programs to increase community awareness of stillbirth and where people can access support
- Models of care in pregnancy to help reduce stillbirth, including for priority populations
- Follow-up care including mental health support or care in subsequent pregnancies for parents after stillbirth
- Support and training for healthcare professionals
- Data collection, reporting and monitoring
- Allocation of research efforts
We have some suggested topics available in the link below, or you can write something more detailed and send it directly to
scstillbirth@parliament.sa.gov.au or
The Parliamentary Officer
Select Committee into Stillbirth in South Australia
GPO Box 572
ADELAIDE SA 5001
Some example suggested ideas on what you may like to include in your submission
Here's what others have said about Still Aware:
"Through Still Aware that I found a sense of support, understanding and a community that truly cared. The resources they offer not only provided vital information on preventing stillbirth (information that I wished I'd receive in my pregnancy) but they also give grieving parents like me a space to heal, share our stories, and feel understood. I just wanted feel heard and do something for our son. Still Aware helped me find the strength to navigate my loss and to honor my baby's memory through advocacy and awareness. The impact of their work goes beyond just education—it's about giving families the hope and support they need during the most unimaginable time, and ensuring that no parent has to go through this alone." - Monica, mother to angel baby boy, born still
"As an expectant parent, I was overwhelmed by the many unknowns and risks during my pregnancy. But thanks to Still Aware, I received clear, practical and life-saving advice on how to reduce the risk of stillbirth. The organisation's educational resources on safe sleep practices, monitoring fetal movements and understanding the warning signs of potential complications gave me the confidence and knowledge to advocate for my baby's health. When I noticed a decrease in my baby's movements, I trusted the information Still Aware had provided and sought immediate medical attention. That decision saved my baby's life. I can never express how grateful I am for the awareness Still Aware gave me, and I will forever be thankful for the difference it made in ensuring my baby was born healthy." - Ben & Sally, parents to a precious baby girl
"As a clinician working in maternal and neonatal care, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact that Still Aware has had on improving both the knowledge and outcomes for expectant parents. The organisation's educational initiatives on stillbirth prevention, such as guidance on monitoring fetal movements and recognizing the signs of complications, have empowered patients to make informed decisions about their pregnancies. By promoting these key messages, Still Aware has helped bridge critical gaps in knowledge, leading to earlier detection of potential risks and, ultimately, better outcomes for both mothers and babies. The resources and awareness they provide are invaluable in our efforts to reduce stillbirth rates and ensure that all families receive the care and support they deserve." - Grace, registered midwife, SA
Suggested template composed by Still Awares Consumer Advisory Board can be found below
Any person or organisation wishing to make a submission to the Committee is invited to do so by COB Friday 31 January 2025.