Della Forster is a leading international researcher in maternal and infant care. She has a joint appointment as the Professor of Midwifery and Maternity Services Research with the Judith Lumley Centre, La Trobe University and the Royal Women’s Hospital, and extensive experience as a clinical midwife.

Since completion of her PhD in 2005 Della has built up her research program and skills, developing extensive research networks with academic, community and clinical collaborations including the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA), the Post and Antenatal Depression Association (PANDA) and prominent Victorian Maternity Services.

Della has broad experience in a range of methodologies and large projects including RCTs, descriptive studies, cohort studies, focus groups and evaluation projects. Her research interests include models of maternity care, perinatal mental health, breastfeeding and maternal, foetal and infant health.