Sign to demand transparent solutions for private maternity care for families in the Top End.

The Northern Territory is on the verge of losing private hospital maternity services. Darwin Private Hospital has announced the closure of its maternity ward by June 6, 2025.

This decision — made by private operator Healthscope — will leave expectant mothers and families across the NT without a choice of how they can access maternity care. It is more than a healthcare shift — it’s a blow to women’s rights, family planning, and the future of Darwin as a liveable city.

Why This Matters:

• This closure eliminates the option for private maternity care within a private medical facility in the NT.
• Women are being left without clear guidance, continuity of care, or transparency around what happens next. 
• Families are facing financial loss and emotional distress, many forced to consider birthing interstate, choosing to relocate entirely or not continue growing their family.
• The public health system will inherit up to 300 additional births annually, adding an estimated $4 million burden to the public purse — a cost previously covered by private insurers and individuals. 

The Fallout So Far:

• Over 100 families have already had their care transferred with little notice.
• Thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket costs continue to be paid by expecting and prospective mothers for now-uncertain private care.
• Expectant mothers report confusion, anxiety and mental health implications due to lacking communication about their options. 
• NT Health and Health Minister Steve Edgington knew for months that closure was likely, yet despite initial promises to support private patients, no practical public updates on these solutions have followed.
• Ministerial responses to letters of concern remain vague on accountability and processes between public and private sectors in managing private patient care.
• Families are making plans to leave Darwin, give birth interstate or cease growing their families. 

We’re Asking the NT Government to Act Now:

1. Launch a Central Information Hub
   Provide a transparent, regularly updated online portal outlining private maternity care options, processes, and financial implications.
2. Host a Public Forum
   Give families a platform to ask questions, share concerns, and hear directly from health leaders, the Minister for Health and the Chief Minister about the future of maternity care in the NT.
3. Commit to finding a Long-Term Solution Clarify the NT Government’s plan to ensure Darwin remains liveable for growing families with access to essential maternity care options.

This Is About Choice, Respect and Priorities. Darwin deserves better. Women and families deserve better. Those growing the NT population feel forgotten. We need clear, sustainable solutions — not silence.

Join us in calling on Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro, Minister for Health Steve Edgington, and NT Health to protect maternity care choices in the Northern Territory.

Sign this petition to demand action now.