$436 Million Boost for First Nations Health Research
20 Feb 2026
A new report shows how funding is growing and how First Nations people are leading important research projects.
The report found that from 2017 to September 2025, the MRFF invested $436 million into 209 research grants focused on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health. Funding has increased quickly over time — starting at $0.6 million in 2017 and rising to $98.6 million in 2024.
Many of these projects are led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander researchers. About 31.6% of the grants are led by First Nations researchers, and 80.3% include at least one Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander researcher in the team.
The MRFF says it supports research that is led by, and created for, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The approach respects culture, community knowledge and the rights of First Nations peoples.
The report also looks at funding trends, challenges faced by researchers, and what helps research succeed. It shares real-life impact stories, including projects led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander researchers and work designed together with Elders, communities and organisations.
https://www.health.gov.au/
Source: Australian Government – Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF)
