The Australian Government is stepping up the fight to find a cure for motor neurone disease (MND) with a multi-million-dollar investment. We are investing $2 million in 2024-25 to support innovative, safe, rigorous and high quality MND research projects.
MND is the name given to a group of diseases in which the nerve cells controlling the muscles that enable us to move around, speak, swallow and breathe fail to work normally and eventually die. With no nerves to activate them the muscles gradually weaken and waste.
The investment will continue clinical trials to test and build knowledge of potential therapeutics and treatments for MND, increase collaboration across the sector, and continue patient monitoring throughout clinical trials.
The funding announcement coincides with this year's The Big Freeze campaign. The Big Freeze is a huge part of the fight against MND which raises more than $16 million through sales of blue beanies, culminating in a high-profile Aussie Rules match between Collingwood and Melbourne at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. At the game celebrities take the plunge into Australia's coldest ice bath to raise funds and awareness.
The Australian Government is proud to continue to support the fight against MND.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care
Ged Kearney MP:
"We don't yet understand what causes MND - there is no known cure. But each day two Australians are diagnosed with this disease.
"A key weapon in fighting MND is research. The Australian Government is proud to make this multi-million dollar investment to support MND research.
"I urge everyone - put on a Big Freeze beanie. Show your support. Working together, we can defeat this beast."
