Arthritis Australia is the peak arthritis organisation in Australia and is supported by affiliate offices in every state and territory.

Arthritis is Australia's major cause of disability and pain. Today, more than 3.8 million Australians - nearly 1 in 5 - have some form of arthritis at a total cost to the community of $24 billion each year. There are more than 100 forms of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout and lupus.

With limited federal and state government funding, Arthritis Australia relies mostly on public donations.  It channels these funds into services which primarily involve:

• Informing all levels of government about issues affecting people with arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions
• Conducting arthritis management programs and education & information sessions for the general public and health professionals
• Training leaders to run self management courses
• Providing access to information to help people make informed choices about the management of their condition
• Facilitating and resourcing support networks for those living with arthritis
• Raising funds to support its medical research program

Arthritis Australia funds more than 30 medical and scientific researchers throughout Australia, all of whom are working to find a cure and better treatments for arthritis.

The board of directors is made up of corporate, health and patient representatives who are committed to developing further initiatives for assisting Australians with arthritis, and to ensuring that arthritis is well and truly on the national agenda.

For all arthritis information:
Freecall in Australia 1800 011 041
www.arthritisaustralia.com.au