Hi everyone  

Last month I talked about viruses and other bugs, but the really cold weather has now hit Melbourne, and no-one is leaving the house before 2 pm if they can help it. Then they scurry back before 4 pm. My wish for you now is that you stay warm. Easier in some places in Australia than others! 

Since I mentioned this briefly last month, ABA has launched and continues to promote our Free 2 feed campaign. You can participate in this by sending an email to your local Member of Parliament or even arranging to meet with them. This is about letting them know how important it is to you that the new mandatory laws to regulate the marketing of infant formula are done right the first time. MPs who hear directly from their constituents (you) now will be better informed and more able to champion the strongest possible protections when the law is debated and voted on later this year. You can find all the information you need, including the easy-as-pie process of emailing your MP directly here. This legislation is about protection for all parents regardless of their infant feeding choices because all parents deserve unbiased information about how to feed their babies. 

World Breastfeeding Week is coming up from 1 to 7 August. You can see more about what ABA is planning on our dedicated webpage from next week here.  

Straight off, a free evening webinar for parents, health professionals and supportive family members is scheduled for Tuesday, 4 August from 7:30 pm, titled 'Strengthen what works: turning evidence into everyday breastfeeding support'. This will focus on breastfeeding support that works, practical insights, evidence-based guidance and real-world support strategies. You need to register to attend and you can do so  here. 

You should also know that planning has begun in earnest for the 2027 ABA Health Professional Seminar series so stay tuned for details of dates, venues and presenters.  

Talk soon.  

Jen Hocking 

ABA Lactation and Breastfeeding Information Expert Adviser