Macular Disease Foundation is Australia’s largest investor in macular and retinal disease research outside of government, committing more than $7.2 million to world-leading Australian researchers since 2011, with the aim of reducing the impact of macular and retinal diseases, finding new treatments and ultimately, if possible, cures.
MDFA’s 2027 Research grants program
In the 2027 funding round, MDFA will again be inviting applications for the Macular Disease Foundation Australia Research Grant and Grant Family Fund awards.
Macular Disease Foundation Australia Research Grant
This grant offers funding up to a total of $200,000 (excluding GST) over a maximum of three years.
MDFA invites researchers to submit research proposals that have the potential to advance knowledge and have a future impact on the lives of people living with a macular or retinal disease.
Grants that will foster cross-disciplinary and/or inter-institutional collaborations are particularly encouraged.
The Grant Family Fund award
Early career researchers can apply for up to $50,000 (excluding GST) for ‘blue-sky’ macular disease research projects up to one year in duration, with the generous support of the Grant Family Fund.
This stream of funding is available to early career researchers who have not held a substantial grant from the NHMRC or equivalent.
Groundbreaking discoveries can emerge from unexpected places and ideas, so we encourage you to apply.
Who is eligible to apply for an MDFA grant?
In addition to the specific eligibility requirements of each specific grant mentioned above and specified in the downloadable guidance below, the following criteria also apply to both grants:
Application process
There are two stages involved in the grant application process.
Stage 1: Submit a completed Expression of Interest EOI application for the relevant grant (See instructions and application forms below).
Completed EOI application forms must be submitted by no later than 11:59pm on Sunday 11th of October, 2026.
Applications will be reviewed and assessed by the MDFA Research Grants Panel, made up of ophthalmologist experts and macular and retinal disease researchers, and shortlisted for Stage 2.
Successful applicants from Stage 1 will be invited via email to submit a full grant application.
Stage 2: The full grant applications will be reviewed by national and international expert peer reviewers, trained members of the macular disease community including people with a macular or retinal disease, and the MDFA Research Grants Panel. The rigorous evaluation process ensures that successful applicants meet the highest standards.
Grants that have been recommended by MDFA’s Research Grants Panel, based on all review information, will be submitted to MDFA’s Board for final approval.
All applicants will be notified of their individual outcomes via email at the end of the process in mid-2027.
How to submit an Expression of Interest for a MDFA research grant
- 1. Download the full Guidelines for applicants document.
- 2. Download the Expression of Interest application form.
- 3. Email the completed Expression of interest application form as a Word document to [email protected] by the closing date.
- 4. Closing date and time: 11:59pm on Sunday the 11th of October 2026.
Please note that applications received after the closing date and time will not be considered.
If you have any queries about the grant application process, please email us with your contact details on [email protected]
