Rachy, private childbirth education classes are MUCH better and I think some private health fund providers give rebates for some of them. If you are aiming for a natural birth, in Melbourne I highly recommend Rhea Dempsey's 'Transforming Pain' workshop. You can see the details here: http://www.birthingwisdom.com.au - she is the woman who trained me and I have attended these classes. Also Choices for Childbirth sessions are brilliant and are held in Brunswick and South Yarra - they are only $10 a session I think!