Almost $4 million awarded through WA Child Research Fund 2024-25

• Seven child health research projects to share in almost $4 million
• Matched funding provided by State Government and Channel 7 Telethon Trust
• Projects span metropolitan and regional health settings

The Cook Labor Government and the Channel 7 Telethon Trust are proud to support world-class research that is driving better health outcomes for Western Australian children.

The WA Child Research Fund (WACRF) enables high-impact projects to address the health needs of young children and adolescents, with grants up to $600,000 available over three years.

The 2024-25 round received 57 applications, and seven projects were selected for funding. Notable funded projects include:

• a non-invasive retinal imaging study by Professor Chandrakumar Balaratnasingam from the Lions Eye Institute to investigate whether the retina can reveal early warning signs of damage in other organs in children with diabetes;
• a Curtin University project led by Associate Professor Laurence Cheung will test a new treatment that will boost the effects of immunotherapy for high-risk childhood leukaemia; and
• Dr Bernadette Ricciardo at The Kids Research Institute will develop an inpatient Aboriginal Health Practitioner-led skin health assessment and research initiative to improve skin health and reduce related-hospitalisations for Aboriginal children.

These projects reflect our commitment to fostering strong research capacity across universities, health services, and regional communities.

To read more visit WA Child Research Fund recipients.

Comments attributed to Premier Roger Cook

"I am very pleased to be able to continue to support world-class research that is making a difference to the lives of children in WA.

"The WACRF not only helps fund medical research into childhood diseases, but also critical services and life-changing opportunities for sick, disadvantaged, and vulnerable children.

"The incredible work being supported by this fund is making big inroads in the medical research space, supporting medical researchers like Associate Professor Laurence Cheung.

"It is also another example of my government's commitment to supporting the health and wellbeing of all Western Australians."

Comments attributed to Medical Research Minister Stephen Dawson:

"Since its inception, the WA Child Research Fund has delivered more than $50 million for research projects to help WA children and their families.

"This investment builds on our commitment to support research that matters  research that will deliver real benefits.

"Through this unique partnership, we are harnessing WA's research strengths and translating them into better care outcomes for our kids and for families in need across our State."