New Beginnings

New beginnings for organisations such as Huntington’s Australia are dedicated to bringing positive change for individuals and their carer networks.

The Nationalisation of the state based Huntington’s networks has involved the process of transforming previously state based organisations and bringing them under the umbrella of a national organisation. Whilst I type the merger is in full swing, bringing with it benefits for individuals impacted by Huntington’s and their carers

In 1974, the Whitlam Labour Government introduced Australia’s first universal health care system. Whist this ensured affordable heath care for all, there was and continues to be gaps. These gaps have tended to be filled by not-for-profit organisations and disease specific organisations.

The state based Huntington’s organisations have long provided support for families affected by Huntington’s Disease. With support also extending to Huntington’s disease clinicians and researchers. Given the rarity of Huntington’s disease state based organisations have struggled. Memberships have been small and sustainability has been challenging.

The implementation of the merger and amalgamation to a National organisation will see current connections expand to provide the best care, support and clinical care. It is crucial to build a larger organisation that brings long term sustainability.

For myself, as a board member of Huntington’s Tasmania this year has been busy and I am excited to have the opportunity to share news and be a part of the Huntington’s community during the amalgamation and nationalisation of Huntington services, support, clinical care and research.

The merger to Huntington’s Australia brings with it a repository of information, skills and lived experiences. Previous gaps and opportunities for improving services are centre front of the merger.

I am excited to have Lenni Duffield leading the way as the inaugural CEO. Lenni brings to the position a varied and wide range of skills, experience, knowledge, qualifications and personal attributes. Lenni also brings to the position a high level of commitment, leadership and passion, that has been evident during this momentous occasion.

This year has already been very busy and it is exciting to have the opportunity to share and be a part of the implementation of the merger and amalgamation of what were state based services to a national organisation, Huntingtins Australia. I encourage you all to share the news and to watch this space and the benefits of sharing resources. The goal of the amalgamation of resources, skills and experience is to help individuals impacted by Huntington’s disease live their best life.