Macular Disease Foundation Australia

MDFA celebrates 25 years and awards a research grant for geographic atrophy.

MDFA has awarded Associate Professor Zhichao Wu with funding to investigate more accurate ways to detect vision loss in people with geographic atrophy (also known as late-stage “dry” AMD) to accelerate future research into new treatments for geographic atrophy.

The MDFA 25th Anniversary Award has been made possible by a generous donation tied to research focussed on addressing knowledge gaps related to geographic atrophy.

Geographic atrophy, occurs when retinal cells gradually die, leading to patches of ‘missing retina’ (called lesions), which can affect the macula, causing loss of central vision.

The findings from Professor Wu’s research could help accelerate the development and testing of new treatments for geographic atrophy, and ultimately help preserve vision, and improve the quality of life for people living with geographic atrophy.

Learn more about the research: https://www.mdfoundation.com.au/news/mdfa-25th-anniversary-award/

MDFA launches a new award for research relevant to people with macular disease in regional or rural areas of Australia.

MDFA has awarded Professor Angus Turner the inaugural Elisabeth Macdonald Memorial Award to develop and test an artificial intelligence (AI) tool that analyses photographs of the back of the eye (the retina) to detect age-related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma and diabetes-related eye conditions.

The Elisabeth Macdonald Memorial award has been made possible by a generous gift from a long standing MDFA supporter and donor. This legacy gift will ongoingly support research relevant to people living with a macular or retinal disease living in regional or rural areas of Australia.

Professor Turner’s project aims to improve access to eye health screening for people across regional and rural areas of Western Australia who have limited access to specialist eye care, which can lead to delays in diagnosis and preventable vision loss.
The goal is to support earlier detection, improve referral pathways and enhance access to timely eye care in underserved rural communities.

By bringing advanced technology into local primary care clinics, this groundbreaking project has the potential to revolutionise diagnosis and care for people with a macular or retinal disease in regional and rural areas, not only in Australia, but worldwide.

Learn more about the research: https://www.mdfoundation.com.au/news/elisabeth-macdonald-memorial-award/

Not everything you see online is real.

Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) have made it easier for scammers to create convincing videos, images and advertisements that misuse the names, images or voices of healthcare professionals.

Australians are being urged to be cautious of online claims promoting "miracle" treatments, supplements or cures for eye conditions, including macular disease. Some advertisements may appear to feature trusted eye health professionals, but the content may be AI-generated or misleading.

If you've seen something online and you're unsure whether it's legitimate, speak with your eye care provider or contact the Macular Disease Foundation Australia for accurate, evidence-based information and support.

Call our National Helpline on 1800 111 709
Or get in touch with our team at: https://www.mdfoundation.com.au/contact-us/

"I follow an eye-healthy diet, I exercise, I do everything I can to protect my vision. But when I heard my diagnosis, I felt a wave of sadness."

While some types of macular disease can be treated, there is no treatment for Sue's condition and no cure yet. That's why research matters.

Your tax-time gift not only provides care today, but it can help fund vital research that can bring us closer to a cure.

Donate today at:
https://www.mdfoundation.com.au/tax26sm/

Vale Professor Richard Scolyer AO

We honour the extraordinary life of Professor Richard Scolyer AO, whose contribution to medical research has transformed countless lives.

Professor Scolyer exemplified the very best of Australian science, pushing the frontiers of discovery to keep our communities healthy and connected.

We extend our deepest gratitude for his remarkable achievements and enduring legacy.

His impact will be felt for generations to come.

Congratulations to Professor Bill Morgan AO, Emeritus Professor Leo Gerard Carney AO and Professor Konrad Pesudovs AM on their recognition in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours.

These distinguished leaders have made significant contributions to eye health, vision science, research, education and clinical care, helping advance our understanding of vision and improve outcomes for people living with eye disease.

Macular Disease Foundation Australia congratulates them on this well-deserved recognition and thanks them for their ongoing contribution to eye health research and care.

The influence of vision loss on musical activities: Survey participants wanted

Researchers from The University of Melbourne are seeking adult participants for an online survey looking at musical activities and how vision loss may affect them (Ethics Approval Number: 35397).

The survey has a maximum of 27 questions and takes approximately 10 minutes to complete, although may take longer for those with vision loss that affects reading speed.

The survey is anonymous and your participation is completely voluntary. Both those with vision loss and those with healthy vision can participate. The survey can be found here:
https://q.surveys.unimelb.edu.au/jfe/form/SV_5sugLz8qAQxK4qq

If you have questions about this research, please contact Associate Professor Andrew Anderson at [email protected]

This week, we celebrate Orthoptics Awareness Week

As orthoptists, they lead with compassion, provide expert support, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of people living with macular disease.

Meet some of the faces behind Eye Connect who are also orthoptists. Our orthoptists play a vital role in helping people understand their diagnosis, stay on track with treatment, and adapt to changing vision with practical, everyday support. They are also at the forefront of ensuring community members are aware of the different sorts of non-clinical support that MDFA offers.