The Albanese Government is helping Australian families access trusted breastfeeding advice and support, with more than 50,000 families turning to the National Breastfeeding Helpline last year.
As Australia marks World Breastfeeding Week, the National Breastfeeding Helpline and LiveChat Service continue to provide free, professional and non-judgemental support to parents and carers with feeding questions and breastfeeding challenges from pregnancy through to early childhood.
Breastfeeding can give babies a strong start in life, supporting healthy growth and development and helping protect against a range of illnesses. It also has important health benefits for mothers, including reducing the risk of breast and ovarian cancers and supporting recovery after childbirth.
While breastfeeding can be a rewarding experience, it is not always easy. Whether it is a late-night feeding concern, questions about milk supply or simply a need for reassurance, the National Breastfeeding Helpline connects families with trained counsellors who have breastfed themselves and understand the questions and pressures that can come with it.
Operated by the Australian Breastfeeding Association, the National Breastfeeding Helpline and LiveChat Service are available 24 hours a day, helping parents and carers access evidence-based information, practical advice and support whenever they need it.
Since 2008, the National Breastfeeding Helpline has received more than 1.2 million calls, making it one of Australia's most accessible sources of breastfeeding information and support.
The service is delivered by 465 trained volunteer counsellors with personal breastfeeding experience. In the past 12 months, 43 per cent of callers reported the service helped them avoid a visit to a GP or other health service, showing how timely advice and reassurance can support families early.
The Australian Government has funded the National Breastfeeding Helpline since 2008 and LiveChat since 2018 and is investing a further $8.9 million to ensure these services remain available to families across Australia.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister White
“Breastfeeding has lifelong benefits for both mothers and babies, but many parents need support along the way.
Many parents have questions, especially in those early days and weeks, and it’s important they know support is available.
“The National Breastfeeding Helpline gives families trusted, practical advice from trained counsellors who understand the challenges parents can face.
“Whether you live in a major city, a regional town or a remote community, support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
Attributable to Australia Breastfeeding Association, Executive Officer, Victoria Marshall-Cerins
“Every call and chat matters, our volunteers are available around the clock every day of the year. We provide a service that thousands of families rely on.
“Calls are generally answered within 3 minutes by our incredible volunteers, many even sooner. It is a free service, families can call for reassurance, support, and care without having to leave the home.”