Vario’s healthy goal

Edith Cowan University’s Vario Health Institute is seeking federal funding to support its preventative health research programs.

The institute was formed in 2003 and is an amalgamation of 17 existing research centres within the university, including genetics, exercise sciences, nursing and psychology. It aims to develop a niche by emphasising prevention and early detection rather than looking at the end product of disease or dysfunction.

The institute will form part of a new health and wellness precinct, a $55 million project to be based in Joondalup.

Edith Cowan University will house the institute, predominantly for new facilities to support the health teaching and learning requirements.

Vario’s campaign director, Tony Hume, said financial assistance would also be sought through a capital fundraising campaign.

Mr Hume said the extra funding would allow the operation of a community clinic, boost research capacity, and provide a funding basis for important positive community programs.

State and local governments will also be asked for financial assistance, as will corporate organisations, individuals and foundations.

At a recent meeting with Health Minister Tony Abbott, Mr Hume said the institute offered a genuine opportunity to change the way society looked at health outcomes, and had the potential to minimise the impost on future health budgets.

And with the nation’s state, territory and federal governments investing more than 90 per cent of annual health budgets on the medical treatment of illnesses, prevention will be at the forefront of the institute’s effort.

Mr Hume said many health problems could not be solved by working in one sector alone and effective solutions needed the combined knowledge, skills and resources of a broader array of researchers.

“Vario does this, unlike other research bodies which are more concentrated on specific interests and expertise,” he said.

“Our researchers are catalysts for change. Their mission is to inspire people to change. By making positive lifestyle choices, people can prevent ill health.”