The study reviewed the provision of childbirth and parenting education in the ACT for indicators of effectiveness and needs. Users (n = 207) and providers (n = 7) were surveyed for information on educational and administrative aspects of the service. An original design questionnaire was based on the PRECEDE framework (predisposing, reinforcing and enabling factors in educational diagnosis and evaluation) and the social model of health. Items were drawn from the relevant literature, concerning individual, social and service delivery elements of the health fields concept interpreted for pregnancy, childbirth and parenting. Individual factors were related to Maslow's hierarchy and the valuing approach to health education. The provider survey covered information on organisational elements, comprising inputs, processes, products, outputs and outcomes of childbirth education. The study comprised a literature review, cross-sectional non-experimental surveys of users and providers, and a needs assessment combining information from each of the three sources. Descriptive statistical techniques, analysis of variance and valuing analysis were used to extract information on effectiveness indicators and needs from the user data. Comparisons were made between present and past users, and between women of different ages, experience of pregnancy and preferences for public or private methods of education for childbirth. No evidence was found of individual differences in the women's attitudes, beliefs and values that could be attributed to education. However, users expressed strong approval and positive views of the service and its providers. The level of personal health skills, confidence and emotional preparatiqn they achieved through childbirth and parenting education did not fully meet their expectations. The survey also found that the organisation of childbirth and parenting education has not developed professionally like other health services. Service goals and objectives are ill-defined; planning and coordinating are inadequate for an integrated maternal health care system. The service's main resources are its highly motivated and dedicated teachers and clients. Several recommendations are made for educational and administrative measures to enhance service effectiveness within present organisational constraints, based on the needs identified by the study.