Macular Disease Foundation Australia (MDFA) has announced the launch of its inaugural MDFA 25th Anniversary Award – a significant investment of up to $200,000 over three years to support 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 where retinal cells die, leading to patches of missing retina and central vision loss. It is estimated that around 100,000 Australians may be living with the condition.1
This new grant responds directly to feedback from researchers and community members living with geographic atrophy, gathered during MDFA’s recent Research Impact Evaluation. The findings highlighted a critical need to prioritise research addressing key knowledge gaps in geographic atrophy.
The MDFA 25th Anniversary Award is open to researchers across Australia working in any field related to geographic atrophy. Areas of research may include, but are not limited to:
- 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, Macular Disease Foundation Australia.
“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.”
The MDFA 25th Anniversary Award builds on the success of MDFA’s Research Grants Program. Established in 2011, the program has committed over $6.9 million to 42 leading macular disease research projects in Australia, making it the largest source of non-government funded macular disease research in the country.
More information about the MDFA 25th Anniversary Award and entry criteria can be found on MDFA’s website.
More information
About Macular Disease Foundation Australia
Macular Disease Foundation Australia is the independent national peak body fighting for the sight of the macular disease community. Our purpose is to reduce the impact of macular disease.
We work with the community and the health system to promote early detection, reduce progressive vision loss and to save sight. We provide a range of free, tailored resources and support services to help people live optimally with macular disease. Our advocacy work amplifies the voice of our community to influence and collaborate for positive outcomes. We invest in vital research, working towards better management, treatments, and cures. Our work is supported by the generosity of the Australian community.
About macular disease
Macular disease covers a range of conditions that affect the central retina (the macula) at the back of the eye. People with macular disease progressively lose their detailed central vision, and ability to recognise faces, read, drive and undertake many aspects of daily life. The most common conditions are age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy, including diabetic macular oedema. One in seven (approximately 1.5 million) Australians over the age of 50 have some evidence of AMD. Diabetic eye disease affects between 300,000 and 400,000 Australians – the leading cause of preventable blindness among the working-age population.
References
1. Deloitte Access Economics and Macular Degeneration Foundation (2011). Eyes on the future – A clear outlook on age-related macular degeneration. Accessed at https://www.mdfoundation.com.au/resources/eyes-on-the-future/.
Posted: 1 October 2025
New $100,000 research grant launched to support people with macular disease in regional and rural Australia
The launch of the new Elisabeth Macdonald Memorial Award coincides with World Sight Day (9 October 2025) and marks the beginning of MDFA’s 25th anniversary year.