Premier Colin Barnett has been joined by Western Australian couple John and Kate De'Laney to formally recognise World Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day.
The Premier said many families had experienced losing a baby during pregnancy or early infancy and this remembrance day would help them come to understand they were not alone.
"Today gives us the opportunity to respect and recognise the immense grief that is suffered by parents and family members, irrespective of the gestational age of the baby lost," he said.
Statistics show one in every five Australian women will endure the loss of a baby in their lifetime, and many women may experience two or more miscarriages.
Mr and Mrs De'Laney have campaigned for Western Australia to recognise this day, which has been marked around the world since 2002.
"I would also like to thank Donna Faragher MLC for her work in ensuring that this day will now be marked here in WA," Mr Barnett said.
The Premier said despite major medical advances and leading research, there was still much to be discovered about miscarriage and stillbirth. In Western Australia alone, almost one in five stillbirths remains unexplained.
"All too often, pregnancy and early infancy loss will only be revealed and discussed when people learn of someone else who has had a similar experience," he said.
"We hope that through the recognition of their loss and the pain endured, this remembrance day will play a small part in enabling families to find a way forward in their grieving.
"Most importantly, this remembrance day acknowledges that these babies were lovingly anticipated and remain forever in their parents' hearts."
Fact File
The King Edward Memorial Hospital Memorial Garden is a unique and precious place for the interment of ashes of stillborn babies
Since the memorial garden opened in 1989, the ashes of more than 17,000 babies have been placed there
For more information contact SIDS and Kids WA on 9474 3544 (metro), 1800 199 466 (country) or their 24-hour child loss support line on 1800 686 780
Premier's office - 6552 5200
