Could you really have a baby in Australia for less than $3,000? According to two mums in our She's on the Money community, absolutely. And they've brought the receipts to prove it!

After previously unpacking the costs of having a baby through the private healthcare system, we're flipping the conversation to something that deserves a whole lot more love: Australia's public maternity system.

This week, we're getting nosy with two gorgeous community members, Hannah from Melbourne and Erin from Perth, who are sharing exactly what they spent throughout their pregnancies and births. We're talking every ultrasound, appointment, pregnancy supplement, physio visit and even those sneaky hospital parking fees.

But this episode isn't just about the money. Both mums had incredibly positive experiences with Australia's public healthcare system, from the continuity of care offered by midwife-led programs to the incredible support they received during pregnancy, birth and beyond. And their stories are a pretty wonderful reminder that great maternity care doesn't necessarily have to come with a hefty price tag.

So whether you're planning a family, weighing up public versus private or just curious about what having a baby actually costs in Australia, we're breaking down the numbers, celebrating our incredible midwives and showing you just how valuable our public healthcare system really is.

GET OUR BABY BUDGET: Budgeting for a new arrival? Grab ours.

READ THE BLOG: Check out our write-up on things to consider when preparing for a baby.

RETHINKING YOUR INSURANCE? Check out our playlist devoted to choosing the right insurances for you.

New here? Follow us on Instagram (@shesonthemoneyaus) for Q&As, bite-sized advice, daily money inspo... and relatable money memes that just get you. 

Acknowledgement of Country By Nartarsha Bamblett (nartarshabamblett.com.au)

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