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FightMND invests nearly $3.1 million into Care Grants in 2026 

08 April 2026

FightMND invests nearly $3.1 million into Care Grants in 2026 

At FightMND, we know that while the search for a cure is vital, people living with motor neurone disease (MND) need better support today. That’s why we invest in research that not only seeks a cure but also improves care for people living with MND right now. 

In 2026, we’re investing nearly $3.1 million across 21 grants supporting Care research and projects that benefit Australians affected by MND. 

This funding supports: 

  • $1,050,617 across 5 Care Research projects 
  • $1,209,668 across 7 projects focused on improving and innovating MND Care 
  • $835,605 across 11 equipment grants through the inaugural Coles Care Grant 

By investing in these research and support projects, FightMND is committed to improving the lives of people living with MND today while the search for a cure continues. 

Meet some of the 2026 Care grant recipients 

This year, FightMND is supporting a variety of projects focused on improving the care of Australians living with MND. Below are just some of the incredible projects receiving funding in 2026. In the coming weeks, we’ll share more information about other projects supported by FightMND’s Care Grants. 

Care Research Grant: Improving quality of life with assistive technology 

Led by Associate Professor Natasha Layton at Monash University, this project will study the use and benefits of assistive technology (AT) for people living with MND. By understanding what equipment works best and when it should be provided, the project will give practical guidance to healthcare teams and the MND community, helping people live more comfortably and independently. 

Care Support Grant: A national online community for people affected by MND 

Led by MND Australia, this project will establish a national online forum through MND Connect, serving people living with MND, their families, carers, and professionals. The forum will encourage peer support, knowledge sharing, and collaboration across the country. The expected outcome is a stronger, more empowered MND community with rapid access to guidance, support, and connection. 

Care Research Grant: Understanding day-to-day secretion challenges in MND 

This project, led by Rachel Nolan from Northern Health, will interview people with MND and their primary carers to capture their lived experience of managing saliva and phlegm. The findings will highlight barriers and enablers to effective management, guiding clinics to deliver more practical, person-centred care. The outcome will be improved quality of life and confidence for people living with MND and their carers. 

Introducing the Coles Care Grant 

This year, FightMND is partnering with Coles to award the inaugural Coles Care Grant. The grant supports research or projects designed to assist Australians living with MND. 

In its first year, the grant is funding 11 equipment grants across Australia, empowering organisations to invest in medical equipment, assistive technologies, care packages, and support services that help people live with greater comfort, dignity, and independence. 

Inaugural recipients of the Coles Care Grant include: 

  • Motor Neurone Disease Association of Western Australia 
  • Calvary Health Care Bethlehem 
  • MND NSW 
  • Barwon Health 
  • Motor Neurone Disease Association of South Australia Inc 
  • Motor Neurone Disease Association of Queensland 
  • Motor Neurone Disease Association of Tasmania 
  • MND Victoria 
  • Flinders Medical Centre 
  • MND and Me Foundation 

The Coles Care Grant reflects a shared commitment to delivering practical, meaningful support that improves quality of life for Australians living with MND. 

Creating hope through research 

Investment in Care research and programs like these helps enhance the quality of life for Australians living with MND, their families, and the carers who support them. These projects build on the incredible progress being made in the fight against MND. 

Want to learn more about how your support is helping in the fight against MND? Visit our Impact page for more information.