Dietitians Australia acknowledges the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) proposal to move towards a strengthened, mandatory approach.

We have long advocated that a legislated, mandatory code is necessary to safeguard breastfeeding and ensure Australia meets its obligations under the WHO International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes Code and WHA resolutions. 

We commend our members working in public health, clinical practice, and the food industry for their ongoing commitment to the strengthening of standards and regulations in this critical area. 

We urge the Government to swiftly enable the strengthened mandatory, legislated approach to the marketing of infant formula to protect public health and align with international standards.  

The strengthened approach must include retailers, and must include mechanisms to address the advertising and promotion of toddler milks, as these challenges are not addressed in the current MAIF agreement. 

Dietitians Australia remains committed to active participation in future consultations, ensuring that all stakeholders collaborate to develop improved, evidence-based regulations prioritising the health and welfare of Australian families and their children