The Future Health Research and Innovation (FHRI) Fund Strategy 2025–30, released this week, outlines the next chapter of a $1.8 billion long-term investment dedicated to driving health breakthroughs with global impact. With more than $260 million already invested into over 745 projects since its 2020 launch, the strategy signals a sharpened focus and clearer pathways to translation, commercialisation, and economic growth.
At the heart of the new five-year plan is the Spotlight Program — an annual flagship initiative that will mobilise the health and innovation ecosystem around one major Western Australian challenge per year. This collaborative approach will draw in startups, researchers, clinicians, investors, and community stakeholders to co-design and deliver scalable, local solutions.
“This strategy creates the conditions for real-world impact: more effective solutions for local communities, stronger economic contribution through health innovation, and a reputation for excellence that extends well beyond the borders of WA,” said Medical Research Minister Stephen Dawson.
More Than Just Funding
The FHRI Fund Strategy is designed to be more than a grant-giving mechanism. It aims to build a future-ready ecosystem that supports startups and innovators at critical stages. Among the core focus areas are:
- Backing early-stage commercialisation: Through investor-led programs that underwrite risk and help bring health tech and medtech innovations to market.
- Building investment partnerships: The fund will co-invest alongside venture partners with commercial capability, helping bridge the gap between idea and impact.
- Growing the talent pipeline: Early and mid-career researchers will be supported with targeted fellowships and near-miss grants to reduce attrition and retain top WA talent.
- Making WA competitive: Investments will focus on infrastructure, funding navigation, and building capabilities to attract national and international funding.
The strategy’s strong emphasis on collaboration is a standout, with cross-sector partnership a prerequisite for FHRI support. Initiatives that leverage co-investment and demonstrate tangible, long-term benefits to the WA health system and economy will be prioritised.
Sector Potential and Startup Opportunity
With the health and medical research sector already contributing significantly to WA’s economy, the new strategy positions the state to become a national leader in biotech, digital health, precision medicine, and Aboriginal health innovation — all areas where WA holds a unique advantage.
Health Minister Meredith Hammat said the strategy would help unlock smarter, more effective care across regional and remote communities, and drive industry diversification:
“We’re not just investing in research — we’re investing in better care, stronger communities, and a health system that’s ready for the challenges of tomorrow.”
For WA startups working at the intersection of health, data, and digital services, the FHRI Fund represents a major opportunity, both in terms of funding and deep ecosystem support.More details, including annual investment plans and application guidelines, will be made available via the Future Health Research and Innovation Fund website.
