Our Organisation
HFA operates as a not-for-profit organisation and runs a national fundraising program. All donations, grants and sponsorships are managed in a spirit of transparency and best practice, and we only develop partnerships with supporters where there is a meaningful and strong alignment with the mission and goals of the Foundation. Our donors and funding partners include government, companies, philanthropic trusts and foundations, service clubs and individuals. Government grants and corporate sponsorships are underpinned by memorandums of agreement or contracts that identify the obligations, responsibilities and benefits of the partnership to each party.
The goodwill of many volunteers, including people affected personally by bleeding disorders and representatives of governments, health sector and industry, who contribute their skills, knowledge and time to achieve the common goal and mission.
Our History
The first haemophilia society was formed in Victoria in 1954 and was one of the first haemophilia patient support organisations in the world. Victoria was closely followed by New South Wales and later South Australia to represent people with haemophilia and their families in each of those States. In 1979, they joined together to form a federation of haemophilia societies and Haemophilia Foundation Australia was established to represent the haemophilia community nationally and with one voice. Haemophilia Foundation Australia was registered as an incorporated association in 1986.
An expansion program led to the formation of societies and support groups in Queensland, Western Australia, Tasmania, Hunter Valley, Australian Capital Territory and Northern Territory . In 1993 these groups adopted the name and approved the common use of the national logo.
Much of HFA’s early work 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 the education and support of people with haemophilia infected with HIV, and their families. In the early 1990’s it was also known that hepatitis C had contaminated blood products and many people who used these products for their treatment had been infected and developed chronic hepatitis C.
Today
HFA and State and Territory Foundations work together to improve treatment and care for people with bleeding disorders and to ensure appropriate representation and advocacy.
HFA staff are committed to advancing our strategic plan and fulfilling our mission by inspiring excellence in treatment, care and support through representation, education and the promotion of research.