​More vulnerable babies across New South Wales will now benefit from expanded access to the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood's donated pasteurised human milk program.

Since 2018, the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, a not-for-profit health service provider, has facilitated the collection and supply of pasteurised donor human milk.

Pasteurised donor human milk provides an important alternative feeding option to babies born prematurely. A mother's own milk is always the preferred feeding option, however a proportion of premature babies may require additional milk until their mother's own supply is established.

An additional 28 public hospitals in New South Wales are now eligible to order pasteurised donor human milk from Lifeblood, increasing the total number of eligible public hospitals to 37.

Participating hospitals can order pasteurised donor human milk “on demand” for eligible babies born before 32 weeks or weighing less than 1500 grams, or who are at high risk of certain medical conditions.

The expansion means donated pasteurised human milk will now be available in Special Care units, including in regional areas such as Dubbo, Gosford, Wollongong, Wagga Wagga and Lismore.

Special Care Units provide specialised care for babies who require additional support but do not need the intensive monitoring and care provided in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Previously, donated pasteurised human milk was only available to babies receiving care in NICUs, which provide the highest level of care for critically ill and extremely premature newborns.

Since the service began in 2018, almost 3000 mothers have supplied 24,000 litres breast milk nationally, and more than 15,000 litres have been sent to New South Wales hospitals.

To learn more about donated human milk visit: https://www.lifeblood.com.au/milk

Vision is available here: https://redcrossblood.wistia.com/folders/jmnwk7bh35

Quotes attributable to Minister for Health, Ryan Park:

“Every baby deserves the best possible start in life, and this expansion will ensure more vulnerable newborns across NSW can benefit from access to donated human milk when they need it most.

“I’m really moved by stories like Hannah’s that highlight how the program can help navigate the stress and uncertainty of having a premature baby in hospital.

“We know that access to donor milk can provide invaluable support for families during those early weeks by assisting with nutritional development and reducing some of the pressure and anxiety for mothers.

“I’m so proud this expansion will improve access in regional communities, helping ensure babies receive high-quality care closer to home.”

Quotes attributable to Australian Red Cross Lifeblood CEO Stephen Cornelissen:

“Until now, the service has primarily supported Neonatal Intensive Care Units. However, many premature babies also spend part of their hospital journey in Special Care Units and can now benefit from this service.

“For families with a baby in a Special Care Unit, access to donated human milk can provide reassurance during an incredibly challenging time. This expansion means more families across NSW will be supported when a mother's own milk is unavailable.”

Quotes attributable to program participant Hannah Top:

“Having access to donor breast milk is something every mother should be able to access, regardless of where they live. It meant so much to me that my girls were able to access the benefits of breastmilk in their early days, and I’m so proud to donate my milk to give other mothers the opportunity I had.”