**Macular Disease Foundation Australia** (MDFA) is a national nonprofit organisation focused on macular disease, the leading cause of blindness and severe vision loss in Australia. Established to represent the interests of Australians affected by macular conditions, MDFA provides support services, health education, and advocacy initiatives.

### History and mission  
MDFA operates as the national peak body for macular disease, representing an estimated 8.5 million Australians living with or at risk of these conditions[1][3]. Its mission includes reducing preventable vision loss through early intervention, improving access to care, and empowering individuals with evidence-based resources[4][5].

### Scope of work  
**Key activities include:**  
- **Patient support**: MDFA runs Eye Connect, Australia’s first comprehensive support service offering personalised non-clinical assistance to individuals diagnosed with macular disease[4].  
- **Health professional education**: The organisation develops accredited training modules for GPs, optometrists, pharmacists, and allied health professionals to improve early detection and management[5].  
- **Public awareness**: MDFA conducts national campaigns highlighting the importance of regular eye checks, particularly for at-risk groups such as older adults and people with diabetes[2][4].  

### Epidemiology and impact  
Macular disease affects approximately 1.9 million Australians, with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) being the most common form[2]. Diabetic retinopathy, another key focus area, remains a leading cause of preventable blindness among working-age Australians[4]. MDFA addresses gaps in care, including low patient recall rates of diagnosis (56%) and limited lifestyle advice provision (58% of patients report none)[4].

### Advocacy  
MDFA engages in policy development, most recently endorsing federal budget measures to improve primary healthcare affordability (2025-26)[1]. The organisation collaborates with eye care professionals to standardise diagnosis communication and promote multidisciplinary care models[4][5].

[1] https://www.mdfoundation.com.au [2] https://www.mdfoundation.com.au/about-macular-disease/overview/ [3] http://3.27.170.16/about-mdfa/our-work/overview/ [4] https://www.orthoptics.org.au/resources/oa-orthoptic-partners/macular-disease-foundation-australia-mdfa/ [5] https://instructionaldesign.com.au/mdfa/