International Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day

A Liberal Nationals government will ensure International Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day is included on the official Victorian calendar, says Shadow Minister for Families and Children Georgie Crozier.

The International Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day provides an opportunity for bereaved parents and families to remember and honour their babies who passed away from miscarriage, stillborn or newborn death.

Last night, Shadow Minister for Families and Children, Georgie Crozier and Shadow Assistant Minister for Health, Margaret Fitzherbert marked the day by attending Sands Victoria’s Wave of Light commemoration. Sands Victoria offers support to women and families who have experienced pregnancy and infant loss.

The Legislative Council passed the Liberal Nationals’ motion to recognise October 15 as International Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day on Victoria’s official calendar earlier this year. It is unclear what actions, if any, the Andrews Government has taken to make this happen.

An estimated one in four pregnancies end in miscarriage in Australia each year, while approximately 3000 babies are either stillborn or die in the first 28 days after birth. This heart breaking loss is under-recognised and many people suffer in silence.

Recognition of the loss of a child through miscarriage, non-viable pregnancies, stillbirth, SIDS, other causes of death of a newborn is an important step in validating bereavement, and starting conversations about getting support.

Under a Liberal Nationals Government led by Matthew Guy, this day will be officially recognised in line with WA, NSW and Tasmania.

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