Back

The hidden cost of the Medical Research Future Fund spending cap

Breast Cancer Trials

Breast Cancer Trials, Australia and New Zealand’s largest independent breast cancer clinical trials research organisation, is joining recent calls for the Australian Government to remove the spending cap on the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF). 

Breast Cancer Trials leads a large multicentre clinical trials research program focused on improving the prevention and treatment of breast cancer. More than 1,000 researchers across 118 institutions in Australia and New Zealand are working toward our shared vision of no more lives cut short by breast cancer.  

Despite the fund continuing to grow, billions of dollars remain unspent, and since 2022 alone there has been an estimated $1 billion shortfall in MRFF funding reaching researchers.  

At the same time, more than 9 in 10 Australian medical research grant applications are unsuccessful. This level of rejection is discouraging many talented researchers — particularly those in early and mid-career stages — from pursuing or continuing a career in research. When promising scientists leave the sector because funding opportunities are so limited, Australia risks losing the next generation of innovators capable of delivering life-saving discoveries. 

"Underinvestment in medical research has real and lasting consequences for the broader community," explained Breast Cancer Trials CEO Karen Price. "Every treatment, therapy, and improvement in breast cancer care available today exists because of clinical trials research. When research funding fails to reach the scientists who need it, the pipeline of new discoveries slows.  

"This translates to delayed progress in improving patient outcomes, limits opportunities for Australian patients to access clinical trials, and ultimately impacts the health and wellbeing of communities across the country."  

The current spending cap on the MRFF is restricting the full potential of this vital national investment. Removing the MRFF spending cap would allow this critical funding to flow to the researchers and projects that need it most. Unlocking these funds would strengthen Australia’s research sector, support the next generation of scientific leaders, and accelerate the medical breakthroughs that patients and families are waiting for. 

"Australia’s best and brightest researchers are ready to solve some of our most pressing health challenges," Ms Price said. "The MRFF is a fund that represents hope for a better future. That is the case for our researchers and most importantly, everyone who will benefit from the breakthroughs made possible by genuine investment in the future."

About us:

Founded in 1978, the work of Breast Cancer Trials has improved the treatment of breast cancer, led to changes in the way breast cancer is managed and has saved thousands of lives. 

Contact details:

Sara McGregor

Media & PR Lead

M: 0424 591 241  

E: [email protected]