Hello everyone  

I hope this news update finds you well and vivacious. We are moving into that time of year where the viruses and other bugs start to show themselves. My wish for you is that you are able to avoid the worst of these and that you and your family and friends can enjoy the contrast in weather over the coming months.  

I was all ready to reflect on the end of ABA’s 2026 Health Professional Seminar series, but it turns out they are not over yet! Access to the online program (which includes all of the presentations including the ones delivered live) has been extended to 9 June 2026. You can still watch the sessions, build your CPD hours and gain information relevant to your clinical practice from a bunch of terrific authoritative presenters across a broad range of topics. This year I have really enjoyed the ‘chunking’ of these videos into manageable and logical segments. I found that this made it easy to digest content and also creates a good guide for having screen breaks and ensuring that you can pick up on the next section without losing track. So check your emails for the link to view and enjoy and learn. And if you have already attended and listened, don’t forget to give us your feedback! We are always looking for ways to improve these annual events. 

At ABA we feel a bit shy spruiking to health professionals about our fundraising activities. You all do so much for mums and babies and families and should not have to think about donating money to us for the work we do. However, I just wanted to offer some information about our annual Tax Appeal which has already opened and continues until the EOFY. Our goal is to raise $40,000 and all of these dollars will support our programs of essential, community-based services that ensure no mother will have to navigate her breastfeeding journey alone. Take a look at our webpage here to find out more and to find options to donate.  

And now something that is right around the corner for you. In July ABA will be launching a series of podcasts for health professionals. Vital breastfeeding-related research will be at the centre of our conversations with researchers and other experts to keep you updated with all the evidence and new perspectives you need to keep your clinical care for families sparkling. You will be able to attend the live recordings of these online or catch up anytime to listen to the podcast version. More details to follow. Looking forward to sharing some top-notch ideas with you soon.  

Next month we will of course be razzing everyone up about that first week in August that is World Breastfeeding Week. We always have a few goodies to share in our favourite week of the year, and 2026 will be no exception. We will also have some news very soon about the next  ABA campaign to help your local MPs and the government understand the importance of ensuring that Australia has effective laws that regulate the marketing of infant formula.  

Stay tuned and have a great month. 

 

Jen Hocking

Lactation and Breastfeeding Information Expert Adviser