Since the program's inception in 2015, and as of 31 December 2023, the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) has invested $40.35 million in 19 grants with a focus on First Nations maternal health.
Of this amount:
$18.4 million was awarded through the 2021 Improving the Health and Wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mothers and Babies Grant Opportunity, to support First Nations-led projects that translate existing knowledge through culturally safe care for pregnancy, birthing and the post-natal period.
$3.80 million was awarded through the 2021 Maternal Health and Healthy Lifestyles grant opportunity that focused on improving the health of pregnant women, mothers, and young children, and included a particular focus on First Nations people.
NHMRC Targeted Call for Research - Improving Indigenous Maternal and Child Health in the Early Years (IIMCHEY) 2022 awarded $5 million over 5 years to identify strength-based, action-oriented approaches and interventions that value Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ concepts of health and wellbeing, cultural practices, and knowledge and learning to ensure that all children have the best start to life. The outcomes will improve maternal and child healthcare knowledge, health policies, care models and interventions and create a sustainable, multidisciplinary network extending beyond research conclusion.