Donna Hartz

Professor Donna Hartz serves as the Clinical Chair in Midwifery within the School of Nursing & Midwifery at Western Sydney University. With a career spanning over three decades since 1988, she has established herself as a leading expert in midwifery research with particular focus on Indigenous health and interprofessional healthcare approaches. Her academic credentials include a PhD from the University of Sydney and a Master of Midwifery Studies.

Professor Hartz's research interests encompass a wide range of critical areas including midwifery practice, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, cultural safety, model of care development, and interprofessional responses to child maltreatment. Her work consistently addresses healthcare challenges within the Australian context, with strong emphasis on improving outcomes for vulnerable populations.

Her recent publication trend shows increasing productivity, with research outputs growing from 1 in 2005 to 7 in 2023 and 6 in 2024. The thematic analysis of her publications reveals a consistent focus on midwifery practice, Indigenous health issues, and interprofessional healthcare approaches, with particular attention to practical applications in clinical settings.

Professor Hartz currently leads two major research projects: The Gomeroi Gaaynggal Breastfeeding Study focusing on Indigenous health outcomes, and the Lungs for Life project addressing preterm infant care. She maintains an active professional presence through her long-standing membership in the Australian College of Midwives since 1988.

As a supervisor, Professor Hartz is accepting HDR candidates and has demonstrated capacity to secure competitive research funding through NHMRC/MRFF grants. Her research program offers opportunities for students interested in midwifery, Indigenous health, and interprofessional healthcare approaches, with strong connections to clinical practice and community-based research.