SIDSwestern australia was formed in 1977 to provide support to families who had experienced the loss of an infant to sudden infant death syndrome. Since that time, it has grown to be one of the most respected charities in WA, with proven health promotion strategies that have reduced the incidence of SIDS in our state by over 75%.

Despite only receiving a total of $9,000 from the state government in the last 20 years, SIDSwestern australia has provided the following essential community services, which are funded by donations and Red Nose Day:

24 hour crisis support - for anyone affected by the sudden and unexpected death of a child - from conception to 2 years of age. This includes miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal death, SIDS, drownings and other trauma related deaths. Support is offered to families, siblings, health professionals and family friends. Currently, over 850 families receive written "Between Friends" newsletter support, attend coffee mornings, memorial services, or one to one counselling sessions.

Education - A full time nurse/teacher/midwife is employed to provide the latest reducing the risk of SIDS information to various community groups and health professionals. Telephone advice is given to thousands of new parents every year, and in-service training is conducted throughout the state. Western Australia has enjoyed one of the best reductions in SIDS deaths in Australia since employing a full time educator, and in 2000, this position was responsible for helping WA to achieve the lowest number of SIDS deaths ever recorded. The current rate of SIDS in WA varies, however, in 2000 there were 6 confirmed SIDS deaths and a further 6 are awaiting confirmation. Even if all are deemed to be SIDS, 12 deaths is a significant improvement compared to over 60 babies dying each year prior to 1990.

Research - Red Nose Day helps to provide funds for all SIDS services, including research into the as yet unknown cause/causes of SIDS. Research will be vitally necessary until SIDS are able to determine what makes a child more susceptible to sudden and unexpected death. Once all factors are discovered, SIDS will then be potentially preventable. At the moment, the risk can be reduced, however, SIDS cannot be prevented in some children.


SIDS western australia
33 Sixth Avenue
KENSINGTON , WA  6151
Ph: 08 9474 3544
Fax: 08 9474 3636
Web: http://www.sidsaustralia.org.au
Email: [email protected]

ABN: 12 614 404 562       DGR: Endorsed / Approved

Volunteering: Phone 08 9474 3544 for details OR Email this address [email protected] listing your contact details and how you might be able to help.