During my labour, the midwives were horrible and offered no support or comfort whatsoever save ONE who talked me through the 8 - 10cm dilation and pushing phases. They also took Aurelia away from me without my permission and I missed out on that bonding time.

I don't think I'll be able to save up thousands of dollars to be honest because we just don't have the money. We live in perth and rent is SO ridiculous and so many people want housing, we're living with my parents right now because we just can't get out! A doula would be a really good idea, though I still REALLY don't want to birth at home!! Though my partner isn't happy about that idea AT ALL.
Did you know that in Perth (WA) that homebirth is actually COMPLETELY FREE covered by Medicare under the CMP program. Just google Community Midwifery Program. So there's no reason you have to save up money to have a homebirth, and the midwife will be involved as little or as much as you like. Would this be an option for you??