Improving the lives of Australians with chronic conditions
Media event date: 2 March 2026 Date published: 2 March 2026 Media type: Media release General public The Albanese Government is investing $110 million over three years to support new projects that help prevent chronic conditions and improve care for people living with them. The funding will be delivered through a new Chronic Conditions Prevention and Integrated Care Grants Program, designed to support initiatives that strengthen prevention, improve coordination of care and benefit people with multiple chronic conditions.
The funding coincides with the launch of a refreshed National Strategic Framework for Chronic Conditions 2026–35 , which sets out a clear and co-ordinated approach to supporting Australians with long term health issues. Chronic conditions account for the most of the country’s disease burden and are associated with approximately 90 per cent of all deaths. Common chronic conditions in Australia include arthritis, asthma, back problems, cancer, chronic kidney disease, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), diabetes, osteoporosis or osteopenia, and various heart, stroke and vascular diseases.
This new framework also makes it easier for all levels of government and a range of health professionals to work together to support early intervention, treat and manage chronic conditions. The framework was developed in consultation with state and territory governments, First Nations stakeholders and the broader community. Further information on the new grants program, including the 2026 application process and timing, will be available soon.
Quotes attributable to Minister Butler: “Almost two-thirds of Australians are living with at least one chronic condition, and well over one-third have two or more chronic conditions. “With these numbers steadily rising, a national, coordinated and forward-looking framework is essential, which is what the refreshed strategic framework provides. “The new framework, supported by the new grants program, will improve the lives and health outcomes for Australians living with, or at risk of, chronic conditions.” The Hon Mark Butler MP Chronic conditions Is there anything wrong with this page?
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