On March 30 we launched our new report, Evaluation of Preferred Investment Models for Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Research, making a powerful case for a dedicated Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) Mission for arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions
The formal launch took place at the first Parliamentary Friends of Arthritis Breakfast for 2026, with Assistant Minister Rebecca White and Research Australia joining our Parliamentary Friends co‑Chairs Dr Anne Webster MP and Senator Jordon Steele‑John, alongside many parliamentarians and sector representatives showing their support for Australians living with arthritis.
Award‑winning journalist and author Sophie Scott OAM, who lives with osteoarthritis, led a heartfelt discussion with lived-experience advocates including Arthritis Australia Ambassador and former Senator Louise Pratt, Selena Bunt, Sharyce Helyar, our Consumer Director Simon Smith, and Medical Director Dr David Liew. Together, they shared the impact of arthritis on daily life, work, and mental health – and the hope that research can bring for the future.
Meeting with the Prime Minister
While we were at Parliament, one of our leading rheumatology researchers Professor Peter Youssef had the opportunity to meet with the Prime Minister about the importance of funding for arthritis and musculoskeletal research. Arthritis Australia ambassador Louise Pratt and CEO Louise Hardy thanked the Prime Minister for listening on behalf of the 7 million Australians with arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions.
Join us in calling for a national Arthritis & Musculoskeletal Research Mission.
