Driving Breakthroughs
in Women’s and Babies’ Health
WIRF is at the forefront of research aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of women, babies and families. From preventing preterm birth to advancing cancer care, our research makes a difference for future generations.
We’re transforming health outcomes through cutting-edge research for women, babies and families.
Our approach to the research we fund
At WIRF, our research is guided by a commitment to improve health outcomes for women, babies and families. Our approach combines cutting-edge science with an ethical, collaborative process to ensure that every discovery makes a meaningful impact.
Translation into practice
We prioritise translating research into outcomes that improve clinical practice and patient health.
Collaboration & Partnerships
We collaborate with leading researchers, healthcare professionals, and communities – both in Australia and globally – to drive innovation and improve health outcomes for women and babies.
Focus on Priority Areas
We focus on key areas of research and care, including preventing preterm birth, advancing care for preterm babies, pregnancy and conception, maternal and infant conditions, women’s health, First Nations health, and mental health, to improve outcomes for women, babies, and families.
Innovation & Evidence-Based Solutions
We harness cutting-edge research and proven solutions to transform care and improve health outcomes for women, babies, and families.
We’re transforming health outcomes through cutting-edge research for women, babies and families.
What’s new at WIRF
Stay up to date on our latest research breakthroughs, community initiatives, events and ways to get involved.
National honour for WIRF CEO Deb Portughes
WIRF is delighted to congratulate Chief Executive Officer Deb Portughes on being awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in recognition of her outstanding service to the community, including her contributions to wildlife conservation and the health of women, babies, and families.
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From fear to hope: Emily’s journey through placenta accreta
Emily Lopes’ pregnancy with daughter Lillian was marked by the life‑threatening diagnosis of placenta accreta. Transferred to specialist care, Emily was supported by multidisciplinary teams across three hospitals, leading to a complex but successful birth. Her story highlights the critical importance of specialised care, research, and early detection in improving outcomes for mothers and babies.
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Midwife-led birth debriefing shows promise for improving maternal mental health
In 2024, Dr Kate Buchanan received a WIRF Research Acceleration Award to evaluate a midwife‑led post‑birth debriefing tool to reduce perinatal depression and anxiety. Implemented at Fiona Stanley Hospital, the project improved trauma‑informed care, strengthened midwifery practice, informed policy, and supports statewide scale‑up.
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WIRF launches Art of Birthing workshops to strengthen complex birth skills
WIRF’s new Art of Birthing workshops deliver world‑class, hands‑on maternity training for healthcare professionals managing complex childbirth. Building on the internationally recognised DVD program, these accredited workshops support midwives, obstetricians and multidisciplinary teams across Western Australia to build skills, confidence and improve outcomes for women and babies.
Read moreStories of Hope and Impact
Meet the families and researchers who have benefited from WIRF’s work in research, outreach, and care. These stories show the true impact of your support.
Josh and Lauren Catalano’s story
Lenny Catalano was born in July 2016 at just 24 weeks “en caul” or in the amniotic sac, something that happens in less
than one in 80,000 births. Due to his almost four month premature birth Lenny would weigh just 620g.
Soon after the birth, the Catalanos were told to prepare for the worst because Lenny had a stage-four brain bleed. Doctors later revealed they gave Lenny a 30 per cent chance of survival. But Lenny overcame the challenges he faced.
Amy and Mike Hussey’s story
Of their four pregnancies, Amy and Mike would have not one, but two preterm birth experiences.
In May 2007, Amy gave birth to Molly Mae at just 28 weeks and weighing little over one kilo. Five years later, in June 2012, their son Oscar would mirror the three month early birth of his sister, also weighing just one kilo.
Liz and Todd Daly’s story
After losing their twin boys, Max and Noah, to the very rare twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome in 2015, Liz and Todd Daly realised just how many babies are lost preterm and how special a full term baby really is.
Following their heart-breaking loss, the couple battled multiple rounds of IVF and a cervical cancer diagnosis for Liz which put their family dreams on hold. However, Liz never gave up hope of having more children and 18 months later her miracle child, Jack, was born. She and Todd went on to have two further children, Philippa and Tom.
Sarra and Jarrad’s story
Sarra and Jarrad’s twins, Hunter and Heath, were born 15 weeks too soon.
Delivered at 25 weeks, Hunter was born at just 1015 grams and went on to spend 97 days in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Sadly, Heath was delivered stillborn due to severe complications caused by enlarged ventricles in the brain.
Rachael and Murray Tegart’s story
For Rachael and Murray Tegart, the start of their parenting journey was marked by the unexpected early arrival of both their children, Will and Rosie, who were born premature.
Their experience is one of resilience and hope—highlighting not only the strength of preterm babies and their families, but also the incredible advances in neonatal care.
Georgie and Daniel Turco’s story
Georgina and Daniel Turco tragically lost their first born son, Kai in May 2018 after complications from his extremely premature birth.
Georgie continues to bravely share her story in the hope to help others and we thank her and Daniel from the bottom of our hearts.
Community-Based Fundraising
WIRF supports community-driven fundraising efforts, providing tools like crowdfunding pages, media coverage, and social media promotion. Individuals and teams can participate in various fundraising activities such as marathons or bake sales.
To apply or learn about eligibility, contact us for guidance, and we will assist with event promotion and coordination.
Our partners and sponsors
We are proud to work with leading organisations and sponsors who support our mission.
