Australian medical researchers have a proud record and will receive a big boost through increased government funding, but given the urgency of the need, the support of the community as a whole and particularly of the philanthropic sector is most important. This is the case especially for applied and clinical research where so many of Australia’s great discoveries are on the threshold of providing practical benefits by way of new diagnostic techniques, new preventive strategies and new treatments. Research Australia will tap into the vein of generosity of the Australian public so clearly demonstrated in the past, now needed more than ever”.