Third trimester checklist for Australian mums-to-be

You have reached the final stretch of your pregnancy journey, and that mix of excitement and 'is it time yet?' is completely normal. With your little one due to arrive shortly, having a clear third trimester checklist can help you navigate these last few weeks with confidence and a sense of calm. As you move through your final pregnancy week by week updates, your focus naturally shifts from growth milestones to practical preparation for your new life as a parent. Organising your medical and administrative essentials The administrative side of preparing for a baby might not be the most glamorous part of your third trimester checklist, but it is certainly one of the most important for a smooth transition. In Australia, we are lucky to have a robust support system, but it does require a bit of paperwork. Around the 28-to-30-week mark, it is time to look at your Services Australia requirements. You can pre-claim Paid Parental Leave and Family Tax Benefit up to three months before your due date, which saves you a lot of stress once your baby arrives. The Medicare and Hospital Paperwork Make sure your Medicare details are up to date and that you have your hospital 'green notes' or digital records ready for every appointment. If you haven't already, check if you need to register for the Medicare Safety Net, which can help with out-of-pocket costs for specialist visits and scans. Writing down your birth preferences is also a great idea—many parents find using a pregnancy journal helps them articulate their wishes for pain management, skin-to-skin contact, and breastfeeding intentions to share with their midwife or obstetrician. Finalising your home and nursery setup Nesting is a very real phenomenon, and while you don't need a perfectly curated Instagram nursery, you do need a safe environment. The NHMRC and Red Nose Australia provide clear guidelines on safe sleeping to reduce the risk of SIDS. Your checklist should include ensuring you have a firm, flat, and well-fitted mattress in a cot or bassinet that meets Australian Mandatory Standard AS/NZS 2172. Wash newborn clothes and linen in a gentle, fragrance-free detergent. Set up a 'nappy station' on every level of your home so you aren't constantly climbing stairs. Stock up on household essentials like toilet paper, pantry staples, and frozen meals—you will thank yourself later! Check your car seat installation. I…