NARI is backing the Association of Australian Medical Research Institute's (AAMRI) campaign to sound the alarm on the future of life-saving medical research - calling on the Federal Government to release the full amount from the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) and ensure those funds meet the true cost of research. 

Financial modelling from the Parliamentary Budget Office, commissioned by Dr Monique Ryan MP, confirms the MRFF can safely release $1 billion a year without eroding its capital base. 

AAMRI CEO Dr Saraid Billiards said the sector is at breaking point, “This isn’t about asking for more – it’s about using the money that’s already there, for the purpose it was created. Institutes across the country are already cutting back. Without full funding, critical research will stall, jobs will be lost, treatments will be delayed and breakthroughs that could save lives in ten years simply won’t happen.”

The campaign also emphasises the need for the MRFF funds to be used where they are needed most, in particular, for the indirect costs of research. Resources like cybersecurity for sensitive patient data and compliance checks to keep equipment safe should not be optional extras, however these are generally not funded by grants.

“We’re inviting every Australian to join the call to release the full Medical Research Future Fund,” said Dr Billiards. “Medical research is hope – and hope needs investment.” 

Learn more about the campaign at www.aamri.org.au/mrff.