We are excited to announce our continued partnership with Women’s Healthcare Australasia, The Australian Preterm Birth Prevention Alliance, and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement in Round 2 of the Every Week Counts National Preterm Birth Prevention Collaborative.
This nationwide initiative is a cornerstone of the Safer Together Program, which supports innovative, evidence-based quality improvement in maternity care.
Proven impact from round 1
Our collaboration in Round 1 saw remarkable success, with 7 proven clinical strategies implemented in services across Australia. These efforts led to a >10% reduction in early term birth rates, improving health outcomes for thousands of women, newborns, and families.
Learn more about the Every Week Counts National Collaborative.
What’s ahead in round 2
Over the next 12 months:
- Four Victorian teams will join over 40 services across Australia to reduce the rate of preterm and early term births by 20% by June 2026
- Teams will continue to build on the lessons learnt from Round 1, further embedding the 7 proven strategies into clinical practice.
- Nine sites will pilot new resources to support preeclampsia screening
- A strong focus will be placed on reducing healthcare inequities for First Nations babies, through partnerships that promote culturally safe and effective preterm prevention care
Why it matters
Preterm birth remains a leading cause of preventable complications and long-term health costs. This initiative presents a strategic opportunity for Victorian health services to:
- Review and respond to local preterm and early term birth data
- Embed effective strategies to improve patient outcomes and system efficiency
- Champion a holistic, equitable approach to pregnancy care
This work has the potential to transform care and deliver sustainable impact across communities.
Learn more
National Preterm Birth Prevention Collaborative | Safer Care Victoria
The Every Week Counts Collaborative – Women's Healthcare Australasia
