A new push to reduce smoking and vaping during pregnancy among First Nations women is set to roll out across the country, backed by a significant funding boost and a focus on culturally safe care.
Southern Cross University's SISTACARE program has received $2.46 million from the National Health and Medical Research Council, allowing the initiative to expand its reach into more communities and health services nationwide.
The funding builds on a decade of work through the SISTAQUIT program, which was first introduced in 2016.
The updated approach will aim to make smoking and vaping cessation support a standard part of pregnancy care for First Nations women.
Smoking during pregnancy continues to have serious health impacts, contributing to low birthweight, premature births and higher risks of infant mortality.
These outcomes remain a significant concern in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, where access to culturally appropriate healthcare can be limited.
Program lead Professor Gillian Gould, from Southern Cross University, said the new funding would help ensure more women can access the support they need through services they already trust.
"This grant enables us to reach every health service that cares for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women during pregnancy," Professor Gould said.
"Our project is led by Aboriginal experts and community voices.
"Together, we're strengthening health systems, reducing risks, and supporting long term community wellbeing."
A key part of the expansion includes a new app designed specifically for Indigenous women, putting practical quit-smoking support directly into their hands.
The program also focuses heavily on training health workers, including midwives, nurses, GPs and Aboriginal health practitioners.
"Through the SISTAQUIT training, health professionals report feeling far more confident, skilled, and optimistic about providing cessation care to pregnant Aboriginal mums," Gould said.
"We're equipping staff with practical training and digital tools so women can access the right support wherever they receive their pregnancy care."
Since its inception, the program has partnered with around 60 Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services, helping build a national network of more than 250 health professionals who regularly share knowledge and strategies.
For Aboriginal leaders involved in the program, the expansion is about more than just health outcomes — it is about long-term change driven by community.
Rebecca Hyland, a proud Kamilaroi-Gomeroi woman and Aboriginal Chief Investigator on the project, said the program reflects the strength of First Nations women.
"Our women are strong, resilient, and deeply motivated to quit the smokes and give their babies the best start in life," Ms Hyland said.
"What we need are health systems that provide the best possible support for women to quit smoking and vaping - and this funding helps make that a reality."
Professor Gould said the long-term goal is to create lasting improvements within the healthcare system, ensuring better outcomes for future generations.
"This is not a short term project," she said.
"It's about transforming health systems so Aboriginal mothers and babies benefit now and for generations to come."
