I found this online (so it may or may not be correct, but it does sound like what I was told):

What the Medicare changes mean
From November 1 2010, midwives and nurse practitioners are able to receive payment for providing services outside the public health system. These nurses and midwives are also able to prescribe a range of medicines that fall under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. Midwives in private practice will need to be registered and hold a Medicare provider number and a PBS prescriber number.
Which midwives are eligible for Medicare rebates?
To be eligible for rebates, midwives need to be registered either under the National Registration Accreditation Scheme or with a state or territory board. Under the new scheme, specific private midwives who qualify will be able to provide ante-natal care, delivery and post-birth services under Medicare. This means if you find a participating midwife you can experience continuity of pregnancy care under a midwife of your choice.


Pretty sure no collaborative arrangement is required. Only one of the mws I know in Sydney does have a collaborative arrangement/practicing rights at a hospital, but I've heard even this is a moving feast and atm it's based on hospital staffing levels as well.