Review of the Marketing in Australia of Infant Formulas: Manufacturers and Importers Agreement (MAIF Agreement)

Overview

We are seeking feedback to inform the Review of the Marketing in Australia of Infant Formulas: Manufacturers and Importers Agreement (MAIF Agreement).

The MAIF Agreement is a voluntary, self-regulatory code of conduct between manufacturers and importers of infant formula products in Australia. The key objectives of the MAIF Agreement are to:

• ensure safe and adequate nutrition for babies
• encourage breastfeeding as the first option for babies
• ensure caregivers make informed decisions
• ensure the proper use of breast milk substitutes.

The Review

The Department of Health and Aged Care has commissioned Allen + Clarke Consulting to undertake an independent review of the MAIF Agreement. The Review seeks to answer the following Key Review Questions:

1. Is the MAIF Agreement effective in achieving its aims?
2. Is the scope of the MAIF Agreement appropriate in the current policy environment?
3. Are the MAIF Agreement processes appropriate?
4. Is the voluntary, self-regulatory approach fit for purpose or are there alternative regulatory models?
5. What are the benefits, costs and any limitations of changes and expansion of the agreement scope, alternative regulatory models and MAIF Agreement processes?

Consultation

We are seeking your submission via survey responses. For more information on the Review and how your information will be used please refer to the Consultation Paper. The consultation period will finish on 12 May 2023.

The Survey may take up to 20 minutes to complete.

Late submissions or requests for extensions will not be accepted.

Next steps

Your feedback will help inform the Review of the MAIF Agreement.

Questions about the Review can be directed to: MAIFreview@allenandclarke.com.au