The Coalition has matched a $50.1m investment by the federal government.
Federal health minister Mark Butler has today announced a $50.1 million investment in the Australian Type 1 Diabetes Clinical Research Network, via the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Australia.
The funding will come over five years and will be used to accelerate clinical research in the prevention, treatment and cure for T1D, he said.
“We’ve got to continue to push the envelope, explore the frontiers of research, and find a cure for this thing so that type one becomes type none. This $50 million in funding will help us get there,” said Mr Butler.
The funding will support the landmark Environmental Determinants of Islet Autoimmunity study, a world-first study seeking to understand the role of environmental triggers on the onset of T1D, from as early as pregnancy.
It will also establish a prevention screening pilot program that tests children for early-stage T1D, before symptoms begin, and develops therapies to prevent the disease progressing.
Funding will also go towards research into medical technologies such as genomics and stem cells, to develop personalised treatments and therapies.
The funding commitment was matched by the Coalition.
“The Coalition has been long-term supporters of the Clinical Research Network and it’s fantastic that its great work will continue,” said Opposition health spokesperson Senator Anne Ruston.
“I thank JDRF’s advocates … for sharing their experiences with us and helping to inform policy. We were proud to match the government’s commitment today and know that the network will continue to keep Australia on the map as a global leader for type 1 diabetes research.”
JDRF Australia CEO Sydney Yovic said: “This is a fantastic step forward for the type 1 diabetes community and will ensure we can continue to invest in the best and brightest researchers on the brink of so many amazing breakthroughs.
“Finally, thank you to our dedicated advocates who have been tirelessly meeting with decision makers across the country to talk about the importance of type 1 diabetes research. This outcome is yours to celebrate, to the benefit of every Australian living with the condition.”