Hamlin Fistula Australia Limited

Hamlin Fistula Australia Limited is a charitable organisation founded in 1996 by Dr Catherine Hamlin, her family, and friends. It supports the work of Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia, which provides specialised care for women suffering from obstetric fistulas—a severe childbirth injury prevalent in developing countries. The organisation has played a crucial role in funding the expansion of the Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital, establishing regional centres, and creating the Hamlin College of Midwives to train healthcare professionals.

Mission and Vision

The mission of Hamlin Fistula Australia Limited is to fund the treatment and prevention of obstetric fistulas and to raise awareness of this debilitating condition. Its vision is a world where no woman suffers from obstetric fistula, and where women affected by this condition receive comprehensive care to restore their dignity and health.

Main Objectives

• Provide funding for surgical treatment and rehabilitation of women with obstetric fistulas.
• Support prevention programs through training midwives and improving maternal healthcare.
• Raise awareness in Australia and internationally about obstetric fistula and its impact on women.
• Maintain financial accountability and transparency to ensure donor funds are effectively used.

Benefiting Groups

• Women suffering from obstetric fistulas in Ethiopia and other developing countries.
• Communities in rural Ethiopia who benefit from improved maternal health services.
• Midwives and healthcare workers trained through the Hamlin College of Midwives and regional clinics.

Services and Activities

• Funding surgical repair of obstetric fistulas at the Addis Ababa Fistula Hospital and regional centres.
• Supporting rehabilitation services that address the physical and emotional recovery of women.
• Training midwives to provide skilled maternal care and prevent fistulas in rural areas.
• Raising public awareness and fundraising in Australia to sustain and expand these vital programs.