Spotlight on Innovation: FHRI Fund Open Day Launches New Era for WA Health Research
Minister Dawson addresses the crowd at the FHRI Fund Open Day.
On 5 November 2025, hundreds of members of Western Australia’s health and medical research community gathered at Dexus Place in Perth’s CBD and online via livestream for the FHRI Fund Open Day.
The event marked the official launch of several new Future Health Research and Innovation (FHRI) Fund Programs and Initiatives, aligned with the FHRI Fund Strategy 2025–30. These initiatives are designed to accelerate innovation, strengthen collaboration, and deliver real-world health outcomes for Western Australians.
A key highlight was the launch of the Spotlight Program, with its inaugural focus on Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) — a preventable condition that continues to have a devastating impact, particularly in Aboriginal communities. The program represents a bold step forward in driving transformational change through research, innovation, and community-led action.
The Open Day featured presentations from:
- The Hon. Stephen Dawson MLC, Minister for Medical Research
- Dr Shirley Bowen, Director General, WA Department of Health
- Mr John Van Der Wielen, Chair, FHRI Fund Advisory Council
- Elder Aunty Freda Ogilvie
- Professor Alexey Terskikh, FHRI Fund Distinguished Fellow
- Professor Jonathan Carapetis, The Kids Research Institute
- Professor Dan McAullay, Edith Cowan University
- Mr Jeffrey Moffet, WA Country Health Service
A heartfelt thank you to all presenters and the many contributors to the RHD research showcased on the day. Your work is the foundation of a healthier, more equitable future for WA.
Read the Minister’s media release highlighting the Spotlight Program and WA’s leadership in health innovation.
Learn more about current funding opportunities.