Progressive, incurable and life-limiting, motor neurone disease (MND) is one of our cruellest neurological illnesses. Affecting the nerve cells that control movement, it gradually robs people of their ability to walk, speak, swallow and, eventually, breathe.
In Australia, two people are diagnosed with MND every day – and two die from it – a stark reality that has driven decades of urgent advocacy, fundraising and research.
Now, a major federal funding announcement is offering fresh hope. This week, the Australian government committed $40.1 million to establish the Neale Daniher National MND Clinical Network – a landmark investment designed to accelerate research, expand access to clinical trials and improve care for people living with MND, no matter where they live.
Named in honour of AFL great and long-time campaigner Neale Daniher AO, the network marks a significant step forward in Australia’s fight against this devastating disease.
“Neale Daniher has led a tireless fight for the MND community, accelerating research and giving hope to thousands of Australians,” Health Minister Mark Butler said in a statement.
“Motor neurone disease is one of the most harrowing conditions we face. It is progressive, fatal, and there is no known cure. We want to accelerate the development and delivery of effective treatments – and ultimately a cure – for MND.”
Neale was named the 2025 Australian of the Year in recognition of his leadership and advocacy for MND research after being diagnosed with the condition in 2013.
A former player for the Essendon Football Club, he became one of Australia’s most recognisable advocates for MND after his diagnosis. Through FightMND, he’s helped raise over $100 million for research and awareness.
Despite losing his ability to speak, he continues to be a powerful voice urging greater investment in research. He described the funding as a step toward “turning hope into action” for future generations affected by MND.
“When I was named Australian of the Year in 2025, I asked the community to imagine. Imagine unlocking the mysteries of the neurological frontier right here in Australia,” Neale said. “This funding commitment is a powerful step forward.”
What is motor neurone disease?
Motor neurone disease is a progressive neurological condition that damages the nerve cells (motor neurones) responsible for sending messages from the brain and spinal cord to voluntary muscles.
As these neurones die, muscles weaken, leading to difficulties with movement, speaking, swallowing and eventually breathing. It is progressive and, at present, has no cure. Symptoms and progression vary between individuals, but most people experience increasing loss of mobility and function over time.
What are the signs and symptoms?
Early symptoms of MND can be subtle and vary widely, but commonly include:
- Muscle weakness, cramping and twitching
- Clumsiness or tripping
- Slurred speech or difficulty swallowing
- Fatigue and muscle wasting
- Emotional and behavioural changes in some people
Diagnosis can be challenging because there is no single definitive test; it often involves ruling out other conditions with neurological exams, imaging and nerve studies.
Is there a cure or treatment?
Currently, there is no known cure for MND. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, supporting quality of life and maintaining independence for as long as possible.
One medicine, Riluzole, is approved to slow the progression of some forms of MND and is available on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. Other therapies –including multidisciplinary care teams, mobility aids and communication support – are also critical parts of managing the condition.
Clinical trials offer access to emerging treatments and play a vital role in expanding the understanding of MND and uncovering potential new therapies.
The new network aims to build on FightMND’s existing work, which has already helped fund 17 clinical trials involving more than 700 people with MND across Australia.
