Celebrating 30 Years
Every child deserves
a healthy future.
For 30 years, HCRF has funded groundbreaking paediatric research right here in the Hunter region — because local research creates lifelong impact for kids and families across Australia.
$2.65M
Raised since 1996
80+
grants awarded
100%
Every dollar to research
30+
years of breakthroughs
Child in hospital bed
— who we are
30 years of turning hope into action
Over $2.65 million raised. Thirty years of breakthroughs. And not a single dollar wasted on administration. We're a 100% volunteer foundation partnering with HMRI and HNEKidsHealth to fund the local researchers tackling the conditions that can turn any family's world upside down.

- our impact

Making a difference in Children's Health

Every dollar raised by HCRF fuels groundbreaking projects and supports world-leading research into conditions like asthma, cancer, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, and sleep disorders.

Many of HCRF's projects have attracted further Federal funding, won national awards, and directly influenced clinical practice. Money raised in the Hunter stays in the Hunter — fuelling projects that change lives here and around the world.

Asthma
Cancer
Cystic Fibrosis
Diabetes
sleep disorders
Child in hospital

Direct Impact on Children's Health

That’s why every dollar raised by HCRF fuels groundbreaking projects and supports world-leading research into conditions like asthma, cancer, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, and sleep disorders - the types of illnesses that can turn any family’s world upside down.

HCRF isn’t just writing cheques; they’re funding dreams. They provide researchers with the tools they need, working with research experts who bring these dreams to life, and offer grants that enable projects capable of changing the lives of children and their families across the globe.

Child in hospital

Clinical Outcome From Research

A Story of Hope: Breakthrough in Cystic Fibrosis Research One such project, funded by HCRF, focused on advancing cystic fibrosis research, a condition that affects the lungs and digestive system of children. For years, researchers had been exploring the potential of a new drug that could help children with cystic fibrosis breathe easier. Thanks to the funding HCRF provided, the research team was able to run essential trials and gather data that led to a significant breakthrough.

The drug, which was once just an idea, is now showing promise in clinical trials and could soon become an approved treatment, offering hope for thousands of families. This is just one example of how your support is transforming the future of children’s health, one groundbreaking discovery at a time.

People in a lab
— Real families. Real impact.
“Behind every research project is a child, and a family, hoping for answers.”
For nearly 30 years, HCRF has connected passionate Hunter community supporters with the researchers who can make a real difference — funding the science that gives families hope, and children a fighting chance.

- Current Campaign

Help us fund life-changing EoE research

Every child deserves to eat without fear. But for children living with Eosinophilic Oesophagitis (EoE), even a simple meal can become a source of pain and distress.

Right now, HCRF is raising $30,000 to fund Dr Scott Nightingale's groundbreaking research into new treatments and monitoring options for EoE at HMRI and John Hunter Children's Hospital.

This research could mean fewer invasive procedures, less restrictive diets, and a better quality of life for children and families living with EoE — here in the Hunter and beyond.

Child in hospital

Direct Impact on Children's Health

That’s why every dollar raised by HCRF fuels groundbreaking projects and supports world-leading research into conditions like asthma, cancer, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, and sleep disorders - the types of illnesses that can turn any family’s world upside down.

HCRF isn’t just writing cheques; they’re funding dreams. They provide researchers with the tools they need, working with research experts who bring these dreams to life, and offer grants that enable projects capable of changing the lives of children and their families across the globe.

Child in hospital

Clinical Outcome From Research

A Story of Hope: Breakthrough in Cystic Fibrosis Research One such project, funded by HCRF, focused on advancing cystic fibrosis research, a condition that affects the lungs and digestive system of children. For years, researchers had been exploring the potential of a new drug that could help children with cystic fibrosis breathe easier. Thanks to the funding HCRF provided, the research team was able to run essential trials and gather data that led to a significant breakthrough.

The drug, which was once just an idea, is now showing promise in clinical trials and could soon become an approved treatment, offering hope for thousands of families. This is just one example of how your support is transforming the future of children’s health, one groundbreaking discovery at a time.

A child playing
$30,000
Fundraising goal
GOAL BY AUGUST 2026
get involved
Every child deserves a full and healthy life
Without your support, all these life-saving research projects would just be ideas on a shelf, gathering dust.

Donate

Any amount, big or small, goes directly to children's health research. Donations over $2 are tax deductible.

Volunteer

Join our 100% volunteer committee and help us run events, raise funds, and change lives in the Hunter region.

Partner With Us

Is your business looking to make a real community impact? We'd love to talk about how we can work together.

Donate to Hunter Children's Research Foundation today