Sjögren’s Australia launches

Australia’s First Sjögren’s Disease Patient Advocacy Organisation Launches

In a landmark step for autoimmune disease advocacy and patient support, Sjögrens Australia has officially launched as the country’s first national organisation dedicated to supporting Australians living with Sjögren’s disease.

The not-for-profit organisation aims to raise awareness, provide education and support, and advocate for improved diagnosis, care, and investment in vital research.

Sjögren’s disease is a chronic, systemic autoimmune disorder affecting approximately 1 in 300 Australians, primarily women, causing significant dryness, fatigue, and pain. Patients also face a significantly high chance of Lymphoma than the greater population. Despite its prevalence and life-impacting symptoms, awareness and research into Sjögren’s disease remains limited in Australia.

The organisation will provide:

• Reliable information for patients and healthcare professionals

• Peer support networks and lived experience resources

• Strategic advocacy and policy engagement

• Public awareness and education programs

• A platform for fundraising to support Australian research

Gavin Marshall, Founder of Sjögrens Australia and a long-time patient advocate, said:

“For too long, Australians living with Sjögren’s have been forgotten about, and we have all

experienced a lack of support and understanding. Sjögrens Australia is here to change that. Our

mission is to empower patients, connect the community, and accelerate change through

awareness and funding for research and vital treatments which will help alleviate the symptoms

and day to day chronic pain that we all endure.”

Dr Maureen Rischmueller MBBS, FRACP, Rheumatologist at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (SA) and Co-Chair of the international OMERACT initiative, added:

“The launch of Sjögren’s Australia is a significant step forward. As a clinician and researcher, I

know how critical patient support and advocacy are to driving better outcomes. This organisation will help close the gap in care, improve public understanding, and drive investment in much-needed research.”

With support from clinicians, researchers, and volunteers, Sjögren’s Australia aims to make Sjögren’s disease visible and improve the lives of Australians affected by the disease.