News

Welcome to the Spring edition of the ADDRI newsletter!  Our team of researchers, nurses, clinicians and subject matter experts have been working overtime to deliver projects and research that will deliver real change to people in Australia and around the world, and we are excited to share some stories with you.

Thank you for being part of the ADDRI community.

Advancing research: the ADDRI Biobank

Early detection and better treatments are critical to improving outcomes for people living with mesothelioma and other dust-related diseases – and the ADDRI Biobank plays a vital role in making this possible.  Safely stored within a specialised facility, the Biobank holds over 17,000 biological samples and clinical information that gives researchers the tools to turn discoveries into real-world solutions – accelerating progress in Australia and around the world.

We now have six approved collection sites open across NSW, with more sites opening in the next few months.  Find out more about the ADDRI Biobank here.

The Silicosis Support Hub: Early impact report

In March, we launched the Silicosis Support Hub (silicosis.org.au) to address the urgent need for reliable information for the nearly 600,000 Australians exposed to hazardous silica dust, as well as the thousands of monthly searches for guidance.

And it is already making a real impact!  With over 5,500 visits and 7,600 video views since launch, the Hub is providing clear, accessible information and support for both people affected and the health professionals who care for them. Read the early impact report here.

Our global work: Clinical training: Cambodia August 2025

In August 2025, ADDRI assembled a team of clinical specialists from Australia and the UK to deliver training in Cambodia aimed at strengthening the diagnosis and treatment of asbestos and dust-related diseases. Supported by the Asbestos and Silica Safety and Eradication Agency (ASSEA) and delivered in collaboration with the Cambodian Ministry of Health, Union Aid Abroad–APHEDA, the World Health Organization, and the Asian Development Bank, the program brought together expertise across key specialty areas.

ADDRI’s goal is to build local capacity by equipping health professionals with the knowledge, tools, and ongoing support needed to better diagnose and manage these diseases, supported by continued virtual guidance after the training. Read more about the training here.

International Mesothelioma Nurse Development Grant

We are proud to announce a new international partnership with Mesothelioma UK and International Ban Asbestos Secretariat (IBAS) to sponsor nurses from low- and middle-income countries with the opportunity to travel to the UK – and learn from – the world’s leading mesothelioma nurses. The aim is that they return home equipped with new skills and knowledge to strengthen care for mesothelioma patients in their own communities.

Our recent time in Cambodia provided the ideal opportunity for ADDRI CEO Kim Brislane to launch this exciting initiative alongside Liz Darlison, CEO Mesothelioma UK.

Together, we are committed to opening pathways for greater asbestos awareness and patient support programs and are really thrilled to be working on this important initiative to advance mesothelioma care globally.  You can read more about the program on the Mesothelioma UK website here.

ADDRI 5^th annual Meso March September 2025

On Sunday, 14 September we held our 5^th annual Meso March bringing together over 80 people – familiar faces, new friends, and many who travelled a long way to join us. This is such an important event as it connects families living with mesothelioma with our supporters, as well as the ADDRI team – our scientists, researchers and clinicians who are committed to developing better diagnostic methods and treatments; as well as our nurses who provide wrap-around support to patients and their families.

We were honoured to have Ms Sally Sitou MP, Federal Member for Reid, join us for this special event.  As a fierce advocate for people living with dust diseases, her presence and support meant a great deal.

Mesothelioma — and all dust-related diseases — are devastating. The Meso March really highlights why ADDRI’s work is so important: to advance world-class research into these complex diseases and to provide support for everyone affected.  You can read more about the day here.

Our Expert Advisors

ADDRI’s expert advisors bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, providing invaluable guidance and support across our national and global programs. Their expertise helps shape research, clinical initiatives, and patient-focused strategies, ensuring that our work is informed, impactful, and driven by the needs of people affected by asbestos and dust-related diseases.

We’re proud to work with this dynamic group of experts and you can meet them here.

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