Alzheimer’s Australia to run new National Institute for Dementia Research

Minister for Health Susan Ley made the announcement last week, as part of the Federal Government’s boost to dementia research.

The National Institute for Dementia Research (NNIDR) will specifically ensure better integration with international research and a focus for rapid translation of evidence from paper to policy and practice.

“Alzheimer’s Australia have an extensive understanding of both the dementia sector and key issues for the future of dementia research, and are perfectly positioned to lead this new Institute,” Minister Ley says.

To support the work of the Institute, Ms Ley released the NHMRC National Dementia Research & Translation Priority Framework that highlights five national dementia priorities.

Ms Ley says the priorities had been finalised following broad consultation with researchers, carers, medical practitioners and people with dementia and prioritises research into prevention, diagnosis, treatment, care, and improving the quality of life for people living with dementia.

The NNIDR will:

• Identify essential dementia research priorities for Australia to inform the strategic direction of the Institute.
• Bring together Australia’s current dementia research including existing programs and other national initiatives, to ensure stronger coordination and collaboration.
• Synthesise information to develop strong linkages with community groups, practitioners and other service providers to rapidly and flexibly translate research outcomes.
• Develop partnerships with researchers, industry and philanthropic organisations to help embed dementia research into the health system aiming to ultimately translate into policy and practise.
• Ensure Australian participation in major international collaborations to ensure we remain a world leader.

National President of Alzheimer’s Australia Professor Graeme Samuel, who will chair the Institute, says: “Alzheimer’s Australia is honoured to be part of this significant new body which will enable priority research in dementia to be coordinated, funded and communicated.”

“This new Institute will facilitate Australian research into dementia of the highest quality and impact, leaving a lasting legacy of excellence that will allow Australia to lead international advances in dementia prevention, treatment and care.

“Alzheimer’s Australia looks forward to working with the NHMRC in the coming months to establish the leading dementia research institute in Australia, which will benefit hundreds of thousands of Australians well into the future,” Professor Samuel says.