Free Online Webinar | Safe Sleep Week
Red Nose Australia presents a free Research and Education Series webinar during Safe Sleep Week 2026, showcasing the important research Red Nose is undertaking and funding to reduce Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy (SUDI) in Australia.
Join us for an engaging evening as a panel of leading experts shares their latest research, insights and discoveries, and explores how these findings are being translated into real-world prevention strategies.
The session will be moderated by Professor Karen Waters, Chair of Red Nose’s National Scientific Advisory Group (NSAG), and will conclude with a live Q&A.
Event details
Date: Thursday 12 March 2026
Time: 6:30pm – 8:00pm
Location: Online via Zoom
Cost: Free
Speakers
Elody Huelmo
Doctoral Candidate, School of Medicine and Public Health – The University of Newcastle
Presentation: Sudden unexpected death in infancy and safe sleep in Australia: evaluating and strengthening prevention strategies
Elody Huelmo, is a second-year PhD candidate at the University of Newcastle, completing her doctorate as part of her medical degree. Her research focuses on sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI) in Australia. In particular, her research examines the characteristics of recent SUDI cases and explores how parents and caregivers think SUDI education can be most effectively delivered to Australian families. Supported by Red Nose, Elody’s work aims to guide the creation of updated, targeted SUDI education resources tailored to Australia’s diverse families and contexts.
Melanie Andrew
Doctoral Candidate, School of Medicine Clinical Perinatal Research Laboratories – The University of Western Australia
Presentation: The Sudden Insights Research Study
Melanie holds a Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Honours), majoring in Humanities in Health and Medicine/Women’s Health. Her research is driven by a commitment to improving paediatric health outcomes in Australia, with a focus on infectious disease and the prevention of sudden unexpected deaths in infants and children.
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Her Honours research examined the physiological mechanisms linking prone sleep position with Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and Sudden Unexpected Death in Childhood (SUDC), including a study of bacterial titres that further supports established safe sleep recommendations. Building on this foundation, her PhD investigates the immunological and microbial origins of SIDS and SUDC, a critical and emerging area of research aimed at advancing prevention and clinical care.
A consumer-led researcher and bereaved mother, Melanie is deeply committed to integrating lived experience into scientific inquiry, advocating for meaningful consumer involvement to ensure research remains relevant, impactful, and sustainable. She also serves as a national ambassador for Red Nose Australia, contributing to advocacy, education, and public awareness, with her research and advocacy united by a strong sense of purpose and commitment to improving outcomes for children and families.
Why attend?
- Learn about cutting-edge research into SUDI prevention
- Hear directly from Red Nose-funded researchers
- Gain insights into how research is being translated into practical outcomes
- Participate in a live Q&A with experts in the field
Registration
This is a free online event. All registered participants will receive a recording of the webinar after the session.
Register now to secure your place.
Research and Education series
What is Safe Sleep Week?
Safe Sleep Week is Red Nose Australia’s national awareness campaign held from 9 to 15 March, focused on reducing the risk of sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI) by sharing trusted safe sleep advice.
Why is safe sleep important for babies?
Safe sleep practices help reduce the risk of SUDI, including sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Creating a safe sleep space and following evidence-based guidance can help protect babies during their most vulnerable stage of life.
Who is Safe Sleep Week for?
Safe Sleep Week is for new and expectant parents, grandparents, carers, and professionals who care for babies. The information shared is designed to support families in all types of living situations.
What is this year’s Safe Sleep Week theme?
The 2026 theme is:
Know the Why. Check the Space. Make it Safe.
It encourages families to understand why safe sleep matters, check their baby’s sleep space, and make simple changes to keep it safe.
What advice will Red Nose share during Safe Sleep Week?
Throughout the week, Red Nose will share safe sleep tips, real-life scenarios, and practical guidance to help families create safer sleep environments for their babies.
Where can I find trusted safe sleep information?
You can access Red Nose’s trusted, research-based resources at rednose.org.au/safe-sleep-and-safer-pregnancy
How can I reduce the risk of SUDI?
You can help reduce the risk of sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI) by following safe sleep guidelines, including placing your baby on their back to sleep, using a firm, flat sleep surface, and keeping the sleep space clear of soft items.
You can read our full Safe Sleeping guide at rednose.org.au/resources/safe-sleeping
Can I get personalised safe sleep advice?
Yes. You can call Red Nose Australia’s Safe Sleep Line on 1300 998 698 for free, confidential support and advice.
