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About Us > Who we are and What we do Haemophilia Foundation Australia (HFA) represents people with haemophilia, von Willebrand disorder and other related bleeding disorders and their families. We are committed to improving treatment and care through representation and advocacy, education and the promotion of research. HFA supports a network of State and Territory Foundations in Australia. As a National Member Organisation of the World Federation of Hemophilia, HFA participates in international efforts to improve access to care and treatment for people with bleeding disorders around the world.
Haemophilia Foundation Australia formed in 1979 and was incorporated in 1986. As the Haemophilia Foundation Australia, we have for over 27 years worked together representing the needs and issues of people and their families with haemophilia, von Willebrand disorder and other related bleeding disorders.
The first haemophilia society was formed in Victoria in 1954, closely followed by New South Wales and South Australia in 1979 these societies formed the first Australian national body which became incorporated in 1986.
An expansion program resulted in the formation of societies and support groups in Queensland, Western Australia, Tasmania, Hunter Valley, Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory. In 1993 these groups adopted the name Foundation and approved the common use of the national haemophilia logo.
Much of the early work of HFA was directed towards lobbying for improved treatment facilities, blood product supplies and counselling services. A great deal has been achieved.
In the mid 1980’s the incidence of HIV infection through the use of contaminated blood products led to initial government grants for education and support of people with haemophilia infected with HIV, and their families. Hepatitis C in the early nineties was a frequent contaminant of the factor concentrates used for treatment. As a result many patients who received such treatment have been infected with the virus and have developed chronic hepatitis C.
A Council made up of delegates from Member State and Territory Foundations manages HFA. HFA Council meets annually for the purpose of reviewing and implementing policy and program plans.
The Executive Board, elected by Council Delegates, are responsible for the day-to-day management and conduct of the Foundation’s affairs. A small staff comprising of the Executive Director, Development Manager, Policy Officer, part-time Executive Secretary, part-time Administration and part-time Accountant implements these affairs.
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