Labels warning of the danger of consuming alcohol during pregnancy will become mandatory on alcoholic beverages after a decision by the Food Regulation forum.
The forum consists of Federal, State and Territory Health Ministers.
The decision was welcomed by the State Government which has been a strong supporter of the initiative.
The new labels will say: 'PREGNANCY WARNING Alcohol can cause lifelong harm to your baby.'
The label includes an image of a pregnant woman with the words in red and black letters.
The beverages industry has been given three years to introduce the decision.
Women who are concerned about their alcohol use during pregnancy or their child's development, should talk to a health professional or call the Alcohol and Drug Support Line on (08) 9442 5000.
As stated by Health Minister Roger Cook:
"This is a significant step in reducing the harmful effects of drinking alcohol during pregnancy.
"Effective mandatory labelling to increase awareness of the dangers of alcohol during pregnancy is long overdue.
"We know that alcohol is harmful to unborn babies.
"We also know that consumption of alcohol during pregnancy is having a damaging effect on our communities in WA and across Australia.
"In particular, we hope this will contribute to limiting the incidence of FASD (Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder)."
