It probably won't happen. Most Australians are supportive, or at least silent, when they see a mum feeding her baby. But the possibility lives in the back of your mind every time you latch on outside your own home.
What if someone says something?
Having a response ready is not about expecting the worst. It is about choosing not to let the fear of a stranger's opinion dictate where, when, or how you feed your child. Here are real responses for real situations.
If Someone Asks You to Cover Up
This is the most common comment breastfeeding mums report. It usually comes from a stranger, occasionally from a family member or venue staff. You are not legally required to cover up. Breastfeeding in public is protected under Australian anti-discrimination law in every state and territory.
Some responses that work:
- "She doesn't feed well covered, but thanks."
- "I'm happy here, thank you."
- "This is actually protected under Australian law. We're all good."
- Say nothing. Smile. Keep feeding.
You do not owe anyone an explanation. A short, calm reply closes the conversation without escalating it. If you want the option to cover without the wrestle of a bulky blanket, a nursing cover or multi-use mama cover can help. Not because you have to use it, but because having the choice makes some mums feel more confident feeding anywhere.
If Someone Makes a Comment About Doing It "In Public"
This one often sounds like: "Can't you do that somewhere private?" or "There are bathrooms for that."
You can try:
- "Would you eat your lunch in a bathroom?"
- "She needs to eat. This is the most practical spot."
- "I'm comfortable here. Thanks for your concern."
Keep your tone even. Most people back down immediately once they realise you are not embarrassed and you are not moving.
If a Family Member Keeps Pushing the Issue
Strangers are often easier to deal with than relatives. A parent, in-law, or older family member may repeat comments across multiple visits. This one takes a firmer approach.
Try being direct once, clearly:
- "I need you to stop commenting on how I feed my baby. It is not helpful and it is not going to change anything."
- "This is working for us. I'd love your support, not your opinion on this one."
If it keeps happening, it is reasonable to feed in another room, not because you should have to, but because protecting your feeding relationship matters more than winning the argument at the dinner table.
If You Freeze and Can't Think of Anything to Say
That is completely normal. Adrenaline does that. You do not need a perfect comeback in the moment.
Silence is a valid response. Eye contact and continuing to feed sends a clear message without a single word. If someone keeps pushing, a calm "I'm fine, thank you" repeated as many times as needed is enough.
After the fact, it is worth thinking through what you would say next time. Rehearsing a response out loud, even to yourself, makes it easier to access under pressure.
If You Want to Feel More at Ease Feeding Out and About
Confidence when feeding in public builds over time. The first few times are often the hardest, and most mums find it gets easier quickly once they realise how rarely anyone actually says anything.
A few things that help in the early weeks:
- Feeding in a carrier or sling gives you more privacy without any extra gear.
- Practising the latch and positioning at home helps you feel faster and less flustered when you are out.
- Sitting with your back to the room reduces eye contact with strangers while you get settled.
- A well-designed nursing cover or multi-use mama cover can give you a bit of coverage if that helps you feel more relaxed, without trapping heat or fighting with your baby.
The goal is feeding your baby, wherever you are, without anxiety running the show. Most feeds in public pass without a single person looking twice. And if someone does say something, you are more prepared than you think.
