Labor announces Neale Daniher National MND Clinical Network

Labor will partner with former AFL player and disability advocate Neale Daniher’s organisation FightMND to help fund research into prevention and treatment of motor neurone disease (MND).

Mr Daniher has been living with the incurable condition since 2013 and has since raised millions in funding for MND research, with advocacy efforts earning him the 2025 Australian of the Year.

Anthony Albanese first outlined the partnership during this year’s Australian of the Year awards on Sunday.

“Neale, your courage and advocacy has brought hope to so many – and we will ensure your work continues to change lives,” the Prime Minister said.

On Thursday, it was revealed $40.1m will be invested into Mr Daniher’s organisation, which will establish the Neale Daniher National MND Clinical Network.

The network will accelerate research, expand clinical trials and improve outcomes for people with MND.

It will also encourage pharmaceutical companies to bring more groundbreaking drug trials to Australia and increase the number of clinical trial sites to make it easier for people in regional, rural and remote areas to participate.

Additionally, the funding boost will back research to drive improvements in care for people living with the condition.

In a statement, Mr Daniher described the investment as a “powerful step forward”.

“The science is advancing, the momentum is building and the establishment of the Neale Daniher National MND Clinical Network strengthens the foundations needed to drive real progress,” he said.

“This investment isn’t for my benefit. It’s about laying the foundations so others don’t have to go through what I have.

“I’m deeply grateful for this support. It is going to help turn hope into action for future generations.”

Health Minister Mark Butler acknowledged Mr Daniher’s unrelenting efforts over the last decade to raise awareness and fund research for the condition.

“Neale Daniher has led a tireless fight for the MND community, accelerating research and giving hope to thousands of Australians,” he Butler said.

“Motor neurone disease is one of the most harrowing conditions we face. It is progressive, fatal, and there is no known cure.

“We want to accelerate the development and delivery of effective treatments – and ultimately a cure – for MND.

“With the establishment of the Neale Daniher National MND Clinical Network, we hope to improve outcomes for those living with this devastating condition.”