Only 40 percent of Australian mothers still exclusively breastfeed their babies at three months and only 15 per cent at five months, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

International health guidelines recommend breastfeeding for the first six months.

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare surveyed more than 28,000 parents, with 26 per cent of mums believing formula was as good as breast milk.

Survey results showed the biggest reason for using formula was the intention to share the joy of feeding the baby with a partner (28.5 per cent).

Only 7.8 per cent of surveyed mothers said they used formula because they wanted to return to work.

The health institute reported that breast-feeding mothers were well aware of the benefits of breast milk. Ninety-four per cent know it is healthier than bottle-feeding and two-thirds feel it is actually more convenient and strengthens bonds with their child.