A group of about 60 women and children, many holding placards, gathered outside the Ballarat Town Hall at 10.40am.

But the group decided to move the protest to the Ballarat Botanical Gardens at 11am because they believed Mr Rudd would attend the Prime Minister's Avenue to unveil his bust.

What Women Want founder Justine Caines from Scone in NSW said Mr Rudd's non-appearance at the gardens was "cowardly", and showed he was not prepared to engage with the protesters.

She said the women were making a stand against an amendment to a senate bill that would require a formal agreement between midwives and doctors.

"Unless the individual doctor sanctions the practice (of home birth) it can't take place," she said.

Ballarat woman Lynda Russell gave birth to her two children at home.

"I'm here today to support home-birthing families having a choice," she said.

* Meanwhile, protesters concerned about the growing number of wind turbines across the region converged on Ballarat High School.

The group carried placards indicating their frustration with both state and federal governments.

Scotsburn resident Belinda Wehl said health problems and the proximity of turbines to homes were the main issues.

"The number of people who were initially happy with the wind farms, who are now suffering health issues is telling, and makes you realise there must be something going on," Ms Wehl said.

Farmer Jim Elsworth and his son Will Elsworth, both from Smeaton, were concerned about the number of wind turbines close to their property.

"We'd like some `pollie' to have a public meeting and explain the benefits of the wind turbines to us," Jim Elsworth said.

"We are tired of being pushed around by dills who won't meet with us."