$50m donation for new endometriosis research institute

Three generations of the philanthropic Ainsworth family, led by Anna and Lily Ainsworth, have this week committed a total of $50 million over 10 years to establish the Ainsworth Endometriosis Research Institute (AERI) at UNSW. The initiative is set to position Australia as a global leader in women’s health, revolutionising endometriosis research, diagnosis and treatment for millions of people suffering around the world.

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus is found outside the uterus, often causing severe pelvic pain, fatigue and in some cases infertility. No cure currently exists for the disease, so those living with endometriosis are only able to manage symptoms rather than treat the cause — and that’s after waiting an average of 6–8 years for an accurate diagnosis. Yet despite affecting one in seven women and people assigned female at birth, and costing the Australian economy up to $9.7 billion annually, investment in understanding the condition has until now been fragmented and underfunded.

AERI will adopt a global consortia-based approach to research, bringing together top scientists, clinicians and philanthropists from around the world — including England, Canada, Denmark, India and the USA — to unlock a continuous pipeline of scientific discoveries. The aim is to accelerate breakthroughs in diagnosis and create precision-based treatments. By focusing on genomic research, biorepositories and advanced testing, AERI will fast-track new understandings of endometriosis, moving beyond current medical limitations.

Endometriosis Australia has welcomed the announcement of the new research institute, with Chair Monica Forlano saying it comes as a major step forward after years of advocating.

“This investment in finding a cure to endometriosis is exactly what the community has been calling for,” Forlano said.

“It sets a global precedent for philanthropy into endometriosis research.”

Associate Professor Anusch Yazdani, Medical Director of Endometriosis Australia, added that the investment is a monumental Australian commitment to supporting those affected by the disease; indeed, it is the largest known philanthropic contribution to endometriosis research globally and to women’s health in Australia.

“Australia currently leads the way globally in research and advocacy, and this unprecedented level of investment demonstrates our commitment to improving diagnosis, treatment and support for the estimated 190 million globally living with endometriosis,” Yazdani said.

The Australian Coalition for Endometriosis noted that the new initiative will centre on the fundamental biology of endometriosis lesions, asking exactly what they are, when they form and why do they behave the way they do in the body. This has been the focus of long-term advocacy by the Coalition and its more than 100 member organisations, including consumer bodies, researchers, GPs, allied health professionals, medical colleges and health sector partners.

“This is a pivotal moment for our sector,” said Coalition Chair Jessica Taylor. “We have always said: if we want a cure, we must first understand the disease. Today’s announcement answers that call and backs it with a dedicated research institute.”

The Coalition is particularly proud to continue its work alongside the newly established institute, ensuring that research is informed by both science and lived experience.

“This is not just another research project,” Taylor said. “It is the foundation of the future: earlier diagnosis, targeted treatment, and — one day — prevention and cure.”

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