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We drive life-changing research, provide vital support services, and raise funds to ensure every woman, baby and family has the healthiest start and a brighter future.

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Governor-General hosts celebration of WIRF’s 50 years of research and impact

The Women and Infants Research Foundation (WIRF) marked its 50th anniversary at a special celebration hosted by Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of Australia, at Admiralty House. The event celebrated five decades of research and impact in improving the health of women, babies and families, while WIRF CEO Deb Portughes OAM unveiled the ambitious new WIRF Global Institute for Women and Babies, positioning Australia as a globally connected leader in women’s and babies’ health research.
Governor-General of Australia, Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC with Women and Infants Research Foundation CEO Deb Portughes OAM celebrating 50 Years of WIRF in Sydney.

How we support women, babies, and families

We’re dedicated to providing essential care, support and information that makes a difference in the lives of women, babies and families. From leading research to offering vital support services, we’re here to help at every step.

Research

Research

Advancing health outcomes for women, babies and families through pioneering research.

Support Services

Support Services

Practical and emotional support for families facing challenges.

Pregnancy Information

Pregnancy Information

Information every pregnant woman needs to know to ensure the best possible outcomes from their pregnancy.

Local initiatives

Local initiatives

Offering great food, unique gifts and memorable events, all in support of women, babies, and families in our community.


Why our work is so important?

  • 13.4M

    Number of babies born preterm each year worldwide.

  • 1M

    Number of deaths due to preterm birth worldwide each year

  • 8%

    reduction in the rate of preterm birth due to our WA Preterm Birth Prevention Initiative (2015 v 2013).


Join Us in Making a Difference

Whether through donations, volunteering, or partnerships, you can help us transform the future of women’s and babies’ health.

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Donate

Your contributions help fund life-saving research and support services.

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Volunteer

Get involved and make a direct impact on families in need.

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Fundraise

Help us raise funds and awareness to drive even more change

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Become a Partner

Join us as a corporate partner and help drive lasting change.

Learn more

What’s new at WIRF

Stay up to date on our latest research breakthroughs, community initiatives, events and ways to get involved.

Governor-General hosts celebration of WIRF’s 50 years of research and impact
News 3 mins read

Governor-General hosts celebration of WIRF’s 50 years of research and impact

The Women and Infants Research Foundation celebrated its 50th anniversary at a special event hosted by Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of Australia, at Admiralty House in Sydney on 23 October.

Read more
WIRF Global Institute for Women and Babies
News 3 mins read

WIRF Global Institute for Women and Babies

The WIRF Global Institute for Women and Babies will bring together world-leading scientists, clinicians, universities, hospitals and industry to rapidly solve some of the most urgent health challenges facing women and babies – here in Australia and around the world.

Read more
Australia to lead global push to close the women’s health gap
News 3 mins read

Australia to lead global push to close the women’s health gap

New research institute to attract international scientific leaders to Australia and accelerate breakthroughs in women’s health, pregnancy and early-life care.

Read more
Reframing ‘Irregular’: Not Rare, Not Insignificant, No Longer Overlooked
News 5 mins read

Reframing ‘Irregular’: Not Rare, Not Insignificant, No Longer Overlooked

On Friday 28 August 2026, WIRF welcomed more than 150 guests to its annual WIRF Scientific Dialogue, with this year’s theme being Reframing ‘Irregular’: Not Rare, Not Insignificant, No Longer Overlooked.

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