Multiple Sclerosis Australia

Multiple Sclerosis Australia (MS Australia) is a national nonprofit organization that focuses on research and advocacy for individuals affected by multiple sclerosis (MS). It was established in 1975 and is registered as a charitable entity in Australia.

Mission and Vision

MS Australia's mission is to accelerate Australian research into the prevention, better treatments, and potential cure for MS. The vision is to create a world without MS, aiming not only to eradicate new diagnoses but also to improve symptom management for those living with the condition. MS Australia believes that finding ways to prevent and cure MS is achievable, thereby enhancing the quality of life for individuals affected by MS.

Role and Activities

As the largest Australian not-for-profit organization dedicated to MS, MS Australia plays a pivotal role in funding, coordinating, educating, and advocating for MS research. It acts as a trusted national voice on MS, influencing policy and supporting medical research across Australia. MS Australia fosters collaboration within the Australian MS research network and encourages researchers to apply for support for their projects, including major platform initiatives.

Research Objectives

MS Australia's research objectives are multifaceted:

• Enhancement of Diagnosis and Treatment: The organization aims to improve diagnostic methods and treatment options for MS. This includes managing symptoms and promoting rehabilitation strategies to enhance the quality of life for those affected by MS.
• Prediction and Prevention: MS Australia seeks to understand the factors that contribute to the onset of MS and investigates strategies to prevent its development.
• Cell Repair and Regeneration: The organization supports research into innovative therapies that can restore damaged neural tissue and improve long-term well-being for individuals with MS.

Impact

As of July 2021, there were over 25,000 Australians living with multiple sclerosis. MS Australia supports these individuals and their families by promoting research and advocating for systemic policy changes. The organization is recognized for its national collaborative efforts in MS research and its commitment to enabling researchers to make significant discoveries that may not be possible through individual efforts alone.

Governance and Structure

MS Australia collaborates with other state-based MS organizations, such as the MS Society in South Australia and Northern Territory, to ensure comprehensive support and research efforts. Through these partnerships, MS Australia contributes to the broader global effort to combat MS, leveraging Australia's unique strengths in medical research.

[1] https://www.msaustralia.org.au [2] https://www.msaustralia.org.au/about-us/about-ms-australia/ [3] https://www.msplus.org.au/about-us/governance-and-leadership/other-ms-organisations [4] https://ms.asn.au [5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MS_Australia