News
People living with motor neurone disease could soon have broader access to clinical trials, following the government's decision to invest more than $40 million dollars into treating the condition.
The funding will go towards the creation of the Neale Daniher National MND Clinical Network, which could see an improvement in local research, expand clinical trials and improve outcomes for people with motor neurone disease according to Minister for Health and Ageing, Mark Butler.
Motor neurone disease is one of the most harrowing conditions we face. It is progressive, fatal, and there is no known cure. We want to accelerate the development and delivery of effective treatments – and ultimately a cure – for MND.
Mark Butler, Minister for Health and Ageing
The network’s namesake, Neale Daniher AO, was diagnosed with the condition in 2013. Honoured as 2025’s Australian of the Year, in recognition of his leadership and advocacy for MND research, Mr Daniher believes the funding commitment from the Albanese Government is a powerful step forward in eradicating the disease.
“This investment isn’t for my benefit. It’s about laying the foundations, so others don’t have to go through what I have.”
Mr Daniher’s own foundation, FightMND, has already funded 17 clinical trials involving more than 700 people with motor neurone disease at sites across Australia.
According to FightMND, motor neurone disease is a progressive and fatal neurological condition affecting approximately 2,700 Australians. Every day in Australia 2 people are diagnosed with the condition and a further 2 people die of it.
This time last year, as Mr Daniher made his Australian of the Year speech, he asked the Australia to imagine unlocking the mysteries of the neurological condition right here in his home country. A year on, and that dream is one step closer to becoming a reality.
The science is advancing; the momentum is building and the establishment of the Neale Daniher National MND Clinical Network strengthens the foundations needed to drive real progress,
Neale Daniher
The new investment is expected to bring more cutting-edge drug trials to Australia, as well as increase the number of sites for clinical trials and make it easier for people in regional, rural and remote areas to participate, according to the Health Minister.
“With the establishment of the Neale Daniher National MND Clinical Network we hope to improve outcomes for those living with this devastating condition.”
As for Mr Daniher, he says he’s grateful for the support.
“It is going to help turn hope into action for future generations.”