As part of our 25th anniversary celebrations, we’re excited to introduce the MDFA 25th Anniversary Award – a major new research grant of up to $200,000 over three years to support Australian-led research into geographic atrophy, a form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Also known as late-stage dry AMD, geographic atrophy is a progressive condition that causes retinal cell death and central vision loss. It’s estimated that around 100,000 Australians may be living with the condition.
This new grant responds directly to feedback from researchers and community members affected by geographic atrophy, gathered during our recent Research Impact Evaluation. The findings highlighted a clear need to prioritise research that addresses critical knowledge gaps in this area.
Supporting innovation in eye health
The MDFA 25th Anniversary Award is open to researchers across Australia working in any field related to geographic atrophy. Areas of focus may include:
- Genes associated with the development of geographic atrophy
- Identifying new risk factors and underlying causes
- Discovering new treatments and therapeutic targets
- Understanding functional outcomes associated with geographic atrophy
“Macular Disease Foundation Australia is committed to driving innovation and improving outcomes for people affected by macular disease,” said Dr Kathy Chapman, CEO of MDFA.
“We are very proud to launch this new grant to help mark our 25th year and take a major step forward in advancing understanding of geographic atrophy -one of the most pressing unmet needs in eye health.”
Learn more about the MDFA 25th Anniversary Award and how to apply here.
New research award targets vision health in regional and rural Australia
The Elisabeth Macdonald Memorial Award, announced in the lead up to World Sight Day (9 October 2025) and marking the start of MDFA’s 25th anniversary year, will fund innovative research focused on improving diagnosis, treatment, and support for people living with macular or retinal disease outside major cities.