Macular Disease Foundation Australia

Macular Disease Foundation Australia’s mission is to reduce the incidence and impact of macular disease in Australia. Macular disease is the leading cause of blindness and severe vision loss in Australia.

Macular degeneration is the most prevalent macualr disease in Australia. It is a chronic disease that affects central vision, which is responsible for the ability to read, drive and recognise faces.  It affects one in seven people over the age of 50. 1 in 4 people over the age of 80 have vision loss or blindness from the disease.

The Foundation’s objectives are to provide education with accurate and ongoing information, increase awareness of macular disease, support and pursue research, provide support services and advocate for the best interests of the macular disease community.

Macular Disease Foundation Australia is the only national charity committed to working on behalf of the entire macular disease community. Clients include patients, families and carers and people at risk of developing macular disease. The Foundation also serves healthcare professionals, providing them with information and resources.

Macular Disease Foundation Australia programs are directed towards education, early detection, support services and representation. Face to face education sessions are conducted across Australia and these sessions reach thousands of people in metropolitan and regional areas each year. The toll-free national Helpline, website, newsletter and collection of publications are all part of the continuum of care for the macular disease community.

Macular Disease Foundation Australia is committed to raising $10 million in 10 years to fund its Research Grants Program. To date $2.8 million has been granted to eminent Australian researchers. The Foundation intends to continue supporting research until a cure for macular degeneration is found.

Lucy Walker, General Manager
Rob Cummins, Research and Policy Manager
Janice Clarkson, Communications Manager

You can give hope by including a gift to Macular Disease Foundation Australia in your Will. It is a simple process that will make a significant difference and help all Australian see a future without macular disease.
If you do not have a Will, the first thing you need to do is obtain legal advice. If you do not have a solicitor, then you should contact the Public Trustee in your state. If you already have a Will, then all you need to do is add a codicil; a short legal amendment to your existing Will.

If you have a legal Will, you should review it approximately every five years or whenever circumstances change.

As a charitable organisation Macular Disease Foundation Australia relies on the generosity of the community to serve the macular disease community across Australia.  To donate please contact the Foundation on 1800 111 709.