The release of the National Dementia Action Plan (NDAP) 2024-2034 last December marks a significant step forward in Australia’s approach to dementia treatment and care. The plan outlines $1.7M in anticipated funding for the Australian Dementia Network (ADNeT), supporting crucial initiatives in healthcare system preparation to respond to the growing number of Australians with dementia.

ADNeT is set to expand several key programs that will enhance dementia care across Australia. These include; development of virtual memory clinics, bringing specialised care to underserved rural and regional areas; implementation of innovative cognitive intervention programs, to up-skill and support clinicians in delivering a variety of intervention techniques; support the national roll-out of blood-based biomarker testing for early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease; and continued support of the annual Australian Dementia Research Forum to promote knowledge sharing at this premier scientific event.

A further cornerstone of the efforts in ADNeT’s continuation is the ADNeT Clinical Quality Registry, which will continue to work with the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare to link data in order to report on the dementia data gaps identified in the NDAP.

The Registry is also prepared to conduct post-marketing surveillance of new disease-modifying treatments, a capability that international experience suggests will be crucial as new therapies become available. ADNeT is well-equipped to lead this effort, ensuring Australia’s healthcare system is ready to deliver and monitor the safety and efficacy of these new treatments.

Through these initiatives, ADNeT continues its commitment to advancing research and innovation, working toward ensuring all Australians have equitable access to high-quality dementia care and cutting-edge treatments.

“The National Dementia Action Plan’s recognition of ADNeT’s potential role in preparing our healthcare system is timely and crucial,” says Professor Christopher Rowe, Director of ADNeT. “The landscape of dementia diagnosis, treatment and care is changing rapidly, and ADNeT is in prime position to ensure Australia is ready.

By strengthening and expanding our existing initiatives, we’re supporting a healthcare system that can deliver and monitor new treatments effectively, while gathering crucial data to improve care for future generations.”