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Tuesday 20 May: $50M donation to establish world-first Endometriosis Research Institute

UNSW Sydney

On Tuesday, 20 May, UNSW Sydney will announce the Ainsworth Endometriosis Research Institute (AERI) – a world-first, multidisciplinary initiative made possible by a record-breaking $50 million philanthropic donation from the Ainsworth family.

This major partnership positions Australia as a global leader in endometriosis research and women’s health, aiming to fast-track diagnosis, improve treatments and change outcomes for the estimated 200 million people living with the disease globally.

Announcement event (media welcome – not for publication):

Date: Tuesday 20 May 2025
Location: The Lounge at UNSW (Level 11, UNSW Sydney Library Building, parking available)
Time: From 10:30am. The event starts at 11:15am, arrive by 10:45am to access broadcast equipment

Speakers include:

- Anna and Lily Ainsworth, donors and advocates

- Case studies with lived experience of endometriosis
- Professor Attila Brungs, Vice-Chancellor and President, UNSW Sydney

- Professor Jason Abbott, Clinical Academic, UNSW Women’s Health
- Professor Caroline Ford, Gynaecological Cancer Research Group Lead, UNSW Sydney
- David Gonski AC, Chancellor, UNSW Sydney

 

A media Q&A with lead researchers, UNSW representatives and an endometriosis patient will take place following the announcement

 

Key Facts:

- One in seven Australian women will be diagnosed with endometriosis by age 49
- AERI will use precision medicine and global research collaboration to drive breakthroughs
- The AERI Institute is the largest known philanthropic gift to women’s health in Australia

A press kit with B-Roll, stills and additional information about AERI is available on request  

Contact details:

Larissa Baiocchi, UNSW Head of Communications
Phone: 0452 229 349, Email: [email protected]

Please RSVP to confirm attendance