Australian Parkinson's Research Receives $30 Million in Federal Government Funding

The Australian Parkinson’s Mission, an innovative program combining clinical trials with genomics research for people with Parkinson’s, has received $30 million in Federal Government funding, the most significant investment in Australian Parkinson’s research.  

The funding, announced today by Federal Minister for Health, The Hon. Greg Hunt MP, will enable the Australian Parkinson’s Mission to identify desperately needed disease modifying drugs with the potential to slow the progression of Parkinson’s.  

“We’re thrilled to announce $30 million over five years in funding from the Medical Research Future Fund. The Australian Parkinson’s Mission aligns with many of the priorities of the Medical Research Futures Fund which includes addressing areas of unmet need, genomics and developing new treatments from drug repurposing,” says The Hon. Greg Hunt, MP.

The Australian Parkinson’s Mission is an Australian-led international collaboration between Shake It Up Australia Foundation, The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, The Cure Parkinson’s Trust (UK), Michael J. Fox Foundation (USA) and Parkinson’s Australia.

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Nepean Blue Mountains Parkinson’s Support Group representatives join Parkinson’s Conference

Terry and Jan of the Nepean Blue Mountains Parkinson’s Support Group recently travelled to Sydney. To join the annual Parkinson’s NSW Support Group Conference.
They joined 90 representatives of 45 Support Groups from across NSW. To hear inspirational speakers,and receive updates on the latest in research and treatments for Parkinson’s, and to share ideas with other people living with Parkinson’s in their communities.

The presenters. Included John Watkins AM, former Deputy Premier of NSW who has himself been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, neurologist Professor Simon Lewis from the Brain & Mind Centre of the University of Sydney, and Associate Professor Rachel Rossiter of Charles Sturt University who is conducting research into the value of Parkinson’s nurses based in regional communities.

There were also demonstrations of music, dance, art, exercise, non-contact boxing and meditation for people with Parkinson’s. In addition, the event included the awarding of research grants for studies aimed at improving the quality of life for people living with Parkinson’s, and eventually finding a cure.

“It was a really valuable experience for us,” said Terry King. “We had a chance to socialise with people in similar positions to us, and to share ideas on what ideas work best for Parkinson’s Support Groups.

“A cure for Parkinson’s has not yet been found, so everyone was very interested to hear about the research being conducted and the outlook for placement of
Parkinson’s nurses in communities like ours.”

The Nepean Blue Mountains Parkinson’s Support Group meets 3rd Thursday of the month Meetings are very informal and supportive, and newcomers are welcome to attend. For more information on the Support Group closest to you, make a free phone call to 1800 644 189.

Parkinson’s NSW Limited ABN 93 023 603 545 ACN 622 455 985
PO Box 71 North Ryde BC NSW 1670 Freecall 1800 644 189
Email: pnsw@parkinsonsnsw.org.au
Web: www.parkinsonsnsw.org.au

About Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s is a progressive, degenerative condition of the central nervous system. Nerve cell damage in the brain causes dopamine levels to drop, leading to the symptoms of Parkinson's.

Parkinson's symptoms include tremors, slow movement, stiffness and loss of balance. Also fatigue, apathy, depression, disturbed sleep, loss of sense of smell, and issues with speech and swallowing.

Symptoms can be managed with medication, exercise and other forms of therapy and support. However, as yet there is no cure.

About Parkinson’s NSW

Parkinson’s NSW is a for-purpose organisation striving to make life better for people living with Parkinson’s, their families and carers.
It hosts the annual Parkinson’s Support Group Conference, and also provides essential services such as counselling, Support Groups, an InfoLine supported by Registered Nurses, education, and fundraising for research. Its mission is to improve the quality of life of people affected by Parkinson’s, while advancing towards a cure.

For more information
Telephone: 1800 644 189
Web: www.parkinsonsnsw.org.au/