Workplace Policy and Guideline for Breastfeeding

The Workplace Policy and Guidelines for Breastfeeding were developed in consultation with key stakeholders across Health and relevant external bodies.

WA Health recognises the importance of breastfeeding for both the mother and infant and acknowledges the short and long term health benefits involved in breastfeeding.  

WA Health is committed to providing a workplace environment that will assist employees balance their work and family responsibilities.  As part of this commitment, WA Health will support employees who return to work while still breastfeeding.  This will be achieved by providing, wherever reasonably practicable, breastfeeding facilities and resources in or near the workplace. 

The Policy applies to all persons employed within WA Health, which incorporates the following entities:

• Department of Health
• Metropolitan Health Services
• WA Country Health Services

This is a system wide policy and supersedes all existing policies related to breastfeeding in WA Health.

It is the responsibility of managers to ensure all staff have access to a copy of this policy.  Employees who have any queries about this policy are to contact their supervisor or manager.   Managers or supervisors with queries should contact their Human Resources Branch.

A copy of the new policy and guidelines is attached for your information, and can also be accessed via Health Workforce Link at http://intranet.health.wa.gov.au/hwl

Dr Neale Fong
DIRECTOR GENERAL
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH