- The WA Government commits $1 million in co-funding to support dedicated research that will tackle critical issues for cystic fibrosis (CF) sufferers, such as antimicrobial resistance and improving care options
- Announced on Friday 6 December at the Western Australian Future Health Research and Innovation (FHRI) Fund Open Day, the FHRI Fund will match funding provided by Cystic Fibrosis Western Australia (CFWA) as part of the new WA Cystic Fibrosis Research Collaborative Program in 2025
- Through the collaborative program, CFWA will award $2m to WA based research projects in 2025
Today, the Cook Government committed $1 million in co-funding, to bolster cystic fibrosis research projects in Western Australia, marking significant progress towards improving outcomes for those with the rare genetic condition.
This funding made possible via the FHRI Fund Co-funding Partnership Program matches the investment by CFWA, in collaboration with Conquer Cystic Fibrosis (CCF); both charities representing the CF community to provide a total funding pool of $2 million.
The funding for the WA Cystic Fibrosis Research Collaborative 2025 program will support WA-based research projects that are committed to exploring alternate therapies and treatment options to improve the lives of people with CF, a condition impacting over 430 people in the state.
CF is a life-limiting condition that leads to thick, sticky mucus affecting the lungs and digestive system. The complex, multi-system disease has a high burden on individuals, their families and carers but thanks to research and continuous advocacy, outcomes are improving.
Lisa Bayakly, CEO of Cystic Fibrosis Western Australia (CWFA), the peak advocate body for cystic fibrosis in WA, says; “The announcement of this funding is a huge step forward for the CF community, something that CFWA has worked tirelessly to advocate for.
“The program will boost WA’s excellent CF research community, with outcomes benefiting Western Australians and individuals nationally and globally. Research is vital, not only to improve life expectancy and quality of life for all people with CF but also to provide effective treatment options for those who currently have none.”
Mitch Messer, whose parents helped establish CFWA after he was diagnosed with the condition as a baby, expresses his gratitude for the funding;“As someone living with cystic fibrosis, the announcement of new government funding towards this important research program is incredibly encouraging.
“CF has a huge impact on families and while treatments have come a long way, there’s still work to do. This investment will help speed progress so that people living with CF can have a future where they can plan and live their lives without the constant shadow of CF hanging over their heads and we are deeply grateful for this critical support.”
Mitch was named 2024 West Australian of the Year, Community and is a dedicated advocate and leader in CF care, driving advancements in treatment, research, and support while addressing the evolving challenges of the condition.
Lisa adds “We’re grateful for the Cook Government’s commitment because this support not only ensures consistent, long-term progress towards better treatments but also recognises and prioritises the needs of people with CF”.
“This funding will drive innovative solutions to tackle critical issues like antimicrobial resistance, which poses a significant risk to both the CF community and the broader population. It also allows us to address the many clinical aspects of CF beyond respiratory health, ensuring more comprehensive care for individuals living with this condition.”
The announcement comes as CFWA enters its 50th anniversary year, following five decades of services, advocacy and a fight for better outcomes for people with cystic fibrosis in Western Australia.
About Cystic Fibrosis Western Australia (CFWA)
CFWA was established by a group of parents in 1975 and today operates as a not-for-profit organisation that provides a range of services, in home support, and resources for people affected by cystic fibrosis (CF), respiratory conditions and rare disease in Western Australia.
Through partnerships and continued collaboration with a range of state and national organisations, CFWA contributes extensively to CF research locally, nationally and globally, together with government and philanthropic research contributions.
About Conquer Cystic Fibrosis (CCF)
CCF is a WA based volunteer run charity focussed on CF research. It is a group of mums, dads, extended family, friends and volunteers united with a common goal – to improve and extend the lives of those living with CF.
About Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is a rare genetic condition which impacts the lungs, digestive system and other body organs and functions. On average, 1 in 25 Australians carry the defective CF gene. Babies born today with the disease can expect to live well into adulthood. There is currently no cure, but advances in treatment and care are helping people better manage their CF.