Practising midwifery independently: for the majority of midwives?

This paper explores the proposition that all midwives can practise independently regardless of their place of practice or employment status. That independence can be defined by the way in which the midwife practises is discussed. The theory of midwifery as a partnership is reviewed and its effects on midwifery as a profession will be explored. How this relates to Victoria and the absence of regulations will also be discussed. The need for continuity of care and women centred practice will be analysed in this context. Advocacy, as used by midwives, will be examined, as will midwife empowerment of the woman and the midwife.