Breastfeeding nationally
In Australia it is estimated that about 90-96% of women initiate breastfeeding.1
Approximately 50-60% of Australian infants are continuing to breastfeed at 6 months.1
Only 15% of Australian infants are breastfed exclusively to 6 months according to the 2010 Australian National Infant Feeding Survey.1
About 22-28% of Australian mothers breastfed their infant to age 12 months.1
The Australian National Infant Feeding Survey 2, conducted in 2010-2011, found that:-
- Breastfeeding was initiated for 96% of children.
- Around 69% of infants were still receiving some breast milk at 4 months of age.
- In the age group 7 - 12 months, 42% of children were still receiving some breast milk.
[1] Australian Health Ministers' Conference 2009, The Australian National Breastfeeding Strategy 2010-2015. Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing, Canberra.
[2] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2011,2010 Australian National Infant Feeding Survey: indicator results. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Canberra.
25%
of Australian babies are breastfed until 12 months of age
Are you a parent needing help?
Click here to visit the Australian Breastfeeding Association website for information and support
