FASD Center for Excellence

Australia

The National Indigenous Australian Foetal Alcohol Syndrome Education Network (NIAFASEN)

NIAFASEN provides culturally appropriate programs and workshops that cover FASD, child growth, brain differences, and the impact of teratogen alcohol on the developing embryo and fetus. The site is overseen by FAS educator and epidemiologist Lorian Hayes, MAE, BAPPHSC HONS.

The National Organization for Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Related Disorders Inc.

Established in 1998, NOFASARD represents parents, caregivers, and others interested in or affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).

The Russell Family Fetal Alcohol Disorders Association

The Russell Family FAD Association provides support for individuals with an FASD and birth mothers, and also assists caregivers through diagnosis and multidisciplinary planning for affected individuals, education, and training. Elizabeth Russell, the founder, is a birth mother of a child with FAS.

In addition:

Australia held its 1st National Conference on FASD in June, 2007.
A Health Monitor Report conducted in 2007 found that the first phase of the Pregnancy and Alcohol Don’t Mix media campaign was successful in increasing awareness. Seven percent of respondents knew there was no amount of alcohol has been declared safe to consumer during pregnancy, while 23% knew specifics of problems resulting from alcohol exposure. Specifics cited were intellectual, physical genetic and growth consequences.
The Telethon Institute for Child Health Research has begun the Alcohol and Pregnancy Project, which seeks to support and promote Western Australian (WA) health professionals' practice with their clients and patients around the issue of alcohol use in pregnancy. The specific aims of the project are to increase the proportion of WA health professionals who routinely ask pregnant women about alcohol and routinely provide pregnant women with information about the consequences of alcohol use during pregnancy. Visit the Institute at http://www.ichr.uwa.edu.au/alcoholandpregnancy.
The National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia adopted new alcohol guidelines for pregnant women in 2008, declaring that 'no drinking is the safest option.