The Andrews Labor Government is backing Victoria’s world-leading researchers to make the breakthroughs that change lives with the latest round of the Victorian Medical Research Acceleration Fund.

Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos today announced applications open for the latest round of funding for evolving fields of medical research.

Researchers in the early stage of their projects with an aim of translating their work into positive health and economic outcomes for Victoria are invited to apply.

Now in its fourth year, the $3 million fund leverages matched support from philanthropic, industry and international sources.

Since 2017, a total of 57 health and medical research projects have benefitted from $8.8 million in Labor Government funding with matched contributions of $14.6 million from the applicants.

Last year, it supported 14 cutting-edge Victorian medical research projects including work at St Vincent’s Hospital on seizure-monitoring implants for epilepsy patients, a trial by PolyActiva of a slow-release eye implant to treat glaucoma and a digital tool to treat speech disorders from the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute.

It also supported a project at St Vincent’s to make 3D printed jaw implants for oral cancer patients and work by the Burnet Institute on a rapid diagnostic test for hepatitis C to speed up access to treatment.

The fund is part of the Labor Government’s ongoing commitment to support ground-breaking medical research while also creating new business opportunities, jobs and economic growth across Victoria.

The Labor Government is committed to supporting Victoria’s world-leading medical research sector.  The current Victorian Budget is delivering $116.5 million for our brilliant researchers, clinicians and scientists to do what they do best.

Applications for the latest round of the Victorian Medical Research Acceleration Fund will be accepted from collaborations between health services, industry, medical research and education institutes.

More information can be found at:  https://www2.health.vic.gov.au/about/clinical-trials-and-research/victorian-medical-research-acceleration-fund