Dear friends and followers of WIRF,

2021 has been another huge year for us at the Women & Infants Research Foundation!

Despite the ongoing challenges we continue to face, our researchers and scientists have responded with agility, resilience, and innovation, to continue our critical work. Below is a look back at our Top Stories for 2021.

From everyone at WIRF, we wish you a happy and healthy 2022 and hope you are able to continue your support of our work in the new year as we continue to strive to give Australian women, mothers and their families, the healthiest possible future.

Thanks again for your support.

Warmest regards,

Deb

 
Deb Portughes
Chief Executive, 
Women & Infants Research Foundation
Federal funding boosts national preterm birth effort
New Federal Government funding is set to change the outlook for Australian babies that are born too soon.

The funding, announced by Health Minister, the Hon Greg Hunt on Mother's Day, will support a national education program to safely lower rates of early birth.
Preterm births cost Australia $1.4 billion annually
A KPMG study has shown that the annual cost of preterm birth to the Australian government is more than $1.4 billion with one quarter of this arising from the need for educational assistance for those born too soon.
WIRF Gala stuns and inspires
Philanthropists and sporting personalities joined leaders in business, health and medicine for WIRF's flagship event. More than 280 guests attended the 2021 WIRF Gala which raised an astounding $278,000.
National report examines rise in early planned births
Prof John Newnham AM was a major contributor to a national report which revealed that many babies are at unnecessary risk because their birth by caesarean section is scheduled too early, without a medical reason.
WIRF champions new resource in the fight against FGM
The launch of a new resource has provided new hope in the fight against Female Genital Cutting/ Mutilation which continues to affect millions of girls and women worldwide.
The Whole Nine Months goes national
The 2021 edition of The Whole Nine Months magazine is circulated to healthcare providers and mothers to be across the country. The 12-page magazine contains expert editorial relating to pre conception, pregnancy, and post pregnancy care, as well as the latest on the Preterm Birth Prevention Alliance.
Study brings comfort for IVF children and families
A new WA study examining the longer-term health outcomes of children born from IVF treatment is heralded as a major breakthrough.
Commission for a Cause raises $450,000
The generosity of Western Australians was on full display as part of Euroz Hartleys 2021 Commission for a Cause. The event raised a record-breaking $450,000, equally split between WIRF and its two partner beneficiaries.
These major achievements would not have been possible without your generous support. From everyone at WIRF, we wish you a happy and healthy 2022, and hope you feel as proud as we do about WIRF's impact.