The Australian Government is marking the 10th anniversary of the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF), which has provided $4.2 billion in funding for health and medical research since its establishment.
According to the government, the MRFF has supported 1,695 grants over the past decade, enabling Australian researchers to pursue innovations ranging from early experimental ideas to large-scale projects and commercial applications.
The $24 billion fund was set up to turn medical research into practical outcomes, with the government emphasising its focus on real-world impact, commercialisation, and national health priorities.
Examples of research funded through the MRFF include an artificial heart that supports patients awaiting transplant, bionic glasses that assist the visually impaired, portable brain scanners for rapid stroke care, and medical brain monitors that improve anaesthesia and pain management during surgery.
The government said the MRFF differs from other funding streams because it is designed to be agile in responding to emerging health challenges, while also involving consumers in shaping research priorities.
It also aims to contribute to the long-term sustainability of Australia’s health system by backing projects with economic as well as clinical benefits.
The Australian Government said it has committed a further $6.5 billion over the next 10 years to continue advancing medical research through the MRFF.
