I went private this time and have been suprised by how much I got back from Medicare once over the safety net (bummer this has changed now), my OB is also quite reasonable so it might pay to do some research before selecting an OB.

I paid $100 for the first 2 visits with my OB (got a bit back from medicare). I then paid $4000 fee (in 2 half payments) that covered all of my visits from that point on and the birth costs (they still take my Medicare card at each visit but no extra cost to me), from the $4000 I got $3000 back (this will have changed now that we are in 2010). I also had to pay for US's between $160 and $260 each (bit back from medicare). Hospital excess $500, so all up around $2000 to $2500 out of pocket (don't know the exact amount).

My OB had a sign in his waiting room saying that he charges at/under AMA recommended fees. I guess the one thing you can't control is the anaesthesist cost because I imagine you just get whoever is on at the time you need them (if you need them that is).

It does add up to a fair bit of money (even more now), I will have to weight up public vs private if we have a 3rd due to Medicare cutting the rebate amounts.

All the best!!