This launch marks another important step taken by the Australian Government’s landmark Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF), towards delivering Australia’s unlimited potential in realising medical breakthroughs.
Former AAMRI president and director of the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute Professor Doug Hilton said he congratulated the Government on this significant development.
“The MRFF is a visionary fund, crucial for building Australia’s health and medical research sector into the future.
“I’m delighted to see the Government on track to delivering on their commitment to grow the MRFF to its $20 billion target by 2021.
“Confidence is renewed among the medical research community, knowing that progress is being made toward a doubling of funding within the decade, for discoveries that can improve and save lives,” Professor Hilton said.
Professor Hilton said he welcomed the appointment of Professor Tony Cunningham as the new AAMRI president.
“I congratulate Tony on his appointment and wish him the best as he leads the sector through this next exciting stage,” Professor Hilton said.
Professor Cunningham said the Government’s announcement has brought Australia to the cusp of a revolution in health and medical research.
“This is a giant step forward, taking the MRFF from an exciting concept, to a game-changing opportunity that will ultimately save lives and save on healthcare costs in the future.
“The burden of conditions such as mental illness, cardiovascular disease, cancer, dementia and diabetes is massive. A health system informed by quality health and medical research is the best way to help us overcome these conditions,” Professor Cunningham said.
Professor Cunningham said he applauded the Australian Medical Research Advisory Board on producing such a tremendous, forward-thinking document.
“The Priorities are a result of an extensive consultative process with the Australian Medical Research Advisory Board which is comprised of leading experts in medical research and innovation, health policy and commercialisation.
“The implementation of these Priorities will improve the lives of many and the MRFF will help us tremendously towards the very best goal of a healthier Australia,” he said.
