- Published:
- Friday 24 July 2026 at 3:00 pm
Labor is backing researchers to develop the next generation of lifesaving treatments, right here in Victoria.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Medical Research Ben Carroll today announced $3 million for 14 projects under the Victorian Medical Research Acceleration Fund (VMRAF).
This supports early-stage research projects across nine institutions, turning breakthrough ideas into real treatments that will save lives.
Among these institutions is Monash University, securing $500,000 to harness the power of AI to detect heart disease in women earlier than ever before.
Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre will also receive $500,000, pioneering a world-first approach that uses DNA from a patient’s own tumor to personalise chemotherapy treatment.
The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research will get a $500,000 boost to lead a trial of a promising new treatment for acute myeloid leukaemia, which affects the blood and bone marrow.
The treatment was developed by Victorian biotechnology company Aculeus Therapeutics.
Labor has invested over $25 million in 136 projects through the VMRAF, helping improve care for those in need.
It's part of Labor's investment of more than $1 billion in medical research – driving the discoveries today that will transform healthcare tomorrow.
Medical research is recognised as a priority sector in the Labor’s Economic Growth Statement, because it drives innovation, improves healthcare and strengthens our economy.
Only Labor invests in projects to help Victorians access new, cutting-edge healthcare.
The full list of funded projects is available at: djsir.vic.gov.au/vmraf
Quotes attributable to Deputy Premier and Minister for Medical Research Ben Carroll
"Victoria is home to some of the world's best medical researchers – and Labor is backing them to deliver the breakthroughs that will change and save lives."
“Labor is helping grow a sector that not only saves lives, but also supports jobs, innovation and our economy.”
Quote attributable to Cardiologist and Lead of Women's Heart Health, Victorian Heart Hospital and Monash University's Victorian Heart Institute Dr Esther Davis
“Heart disease in women is under diagnosed and, as a result, under treated. This research aims to couple the power of AI with information gained through routine breast cancer screening to identify the risk of heart disease in women. With this knowledge we aim to provide earlier treatment and improve outcomes for women with heart disease."