Source: Office of the Premier of Victoria, Hon John Brumby

From the Premier of Victoria

Thursday  August 9, 2007

MORE FUNDING TO HELP VICTORIANS WITH BRAIN INJURIES

Premier John Brumby today joined with Muhammad Ali’s, daughter Rasheda Ali, to announce a further boost to Victoria’s reputation as a leader in medical and scientific research with the creation of 20 new research fellowships in neuroscience.

Premier John Brumby announced $4.25 million to fund 20 neuroscience research fellowships as part of the Victorian Neurotrauma Initiative.

Ms Ali has campaigned internationally to raise awareness and funds for brain injuries and diseases and is in Melbourne for the Royal Melbourne Hospital Neuroscience Foundation.

“This funding will support neuroscience research into areas such as severe brain and spinal cord injuries,” Mr Brumby said.

"In 2005 the Victorian Neurotrauma Initiative was launched with a $63 million commitment to foster an internationally acclaimed research community.

“We have an extraordinary pool of research talent in Victoria and we want to ensure that the expertise remains here for the benefit of the thousands of Victorians who have life changing injuries," Mr Brumby said.

Mr Brumby said the research fellowships would be integral in breaking down new frontiers and in assisting in both acute and long term recovery.

"More than 700 Victorians suffer an acquired brain or spinal injury every year and this funding recognises that it is a community problem that requires significant investment.”

Rasheda Ali has traced her father’s battle with Parkinson’s Disease in the book I'll Hold Your Hand So You Won't Fall: A Child's Guide to Parkinson's Disease.

"He has a strong mental ability and I think that's important with Parkinson's," Rasheda Ali said. "When you have an illness that is not treatable and there is no cure at this time, you have to be mentally prepared for that. It's going to be a long journey and my dad has such a strong positive mental attitude, and he shares that," Ms Ali said.

Other Brumby Government initiatives in neuroscience and brain injury include:
• $12.3 million in additional funding for support services for people with acquired brain injury;
• The Healthy Futures package which included $53 million to establish the Australian centre for Neuroscience and Mental health research with campuses at Parkville precinct and the Austin Hospital; and
• $2.2 million per year for a 10 bed purpose-built facility at Alphington to provide long term support and accommodation for young people with disabilities including brain injury and neurological conditions.