Funding for multiple sclerosis research

Multiple Sclerosis Research Australia (MSRA) has received $1 million from the Australian Government to continue its research into multiple sclerosis (MS) prevention and treatment.

MS is a chronic disease that attacks the central nervous system - the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. It affects around 23,000 Australians and 2.5 million people internationally. 

The disease disproportionately affects women and the diagnosis occurs at around 20-40 years of age.

MSRA is a hub for Australian research into MS. It facilitates research collaborations by universities and medical research institutes around Australia and New Zealand. 



“Significant achievements have included a world-first MS prevention trial with vitamin D intervention for early-stage MS patients in Australia and New Zealand, and analysis of patient needs to improve service delivery for Australians with MS,” said Minister for Health and Ageing Tanya Plibersek. 


“Researchers from Monash University also found a way to block MS nerve degeneration and Adelaide University is investigating a possible new way of controlling the immune system in MS.” 



MSRA is the research arm of MS Australia, the national peak body for Australians living with MS.
The renewed funding coincides with MS Australia’s Kiss Goodbye to MS promotion during May, before World MS Day on 29 May.