News and Media
e-Newsletters
We communicate regularly with our members via newsletters. The latest issues are posted below.
Latest IDFA Updates
QLD High Tea Member Reunion Wrap-up
It was fantastic to see some of our members at our QLD Member Reunion at the Rydges Hotel on the 19th of November. At the event, guests heard from two IDFA members about their...
Carolyn Dews, IDFA CEO, Takes on Ride500 Challenge
Carolyn Dews, IDFA CEO, Takes on Ride500 Challenge To celebrate the once in a lifetime UCI 2022 Road World Championships taking place in Wollongong, Cancer Council NSW is...
Young Adult Members Conference: 23 July 2022
Itinerary Saturday 23 July, 9am to 3pm 9am-9:05am: Welcome. Acknowledgement of Country. 9.05am-9:15am: Introductions. Presenter: Carolyn Dews, IDFA CEO. 9.15am-9:45am: 3 x Young...
Media Releases
It is time to shine a light on ‘Hidden Disabilities’
In recent times, there has been increased recognition around ‘hidden disabilities,’ and patient organisations Australian Primary Immunodeficiency Patient Support (AusPIPS Inc.) and Immune Deficiencies Foundation Australia (IDFA) are joining the conversation.
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Unite and wear your colours for Rare Disease Day 2024
Olivia Murdoch emphasises the importance in raising awareness for all rare diseases. “We know that education about these kinds of illnesses will provide earlier diagnosis and treatment for people, with the aim to avoid potentially life-threatening situations, which we had to endure.”
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Local Not-For-Profit Hosts 'Plasma Party'
Receiving a diagnosis of an immunodeficiency has an impact across all aspects of your day-to-day life. Our Patient Membership offers resources, events, tools and community to support you through your journey.
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Upcoming Events
Important Dates
Rare Disease Day - Last day of February
Held on the last day of February each year Rare Disease Day is an international campaign aimed at raising awareness of rare diseases amongst the general public and decision makers about the impact of rare disease on patients’ lives.
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World PI Week - 22-29 April
Observed every year from April 22 to April 29 World PI Week is a global initiative that aims to increase awareness and improve the early diagnosis and treatment of primary immunodeficiencies (PI).
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International Plasma Awareness Week - First week of October
Held annually, International Plasma Awareness Week raises global awareness about source plasma collection, recognises the valued contributions of donors, and increases understanding about plasma protein therapies and rare diseases.
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Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates
The global pandemic is an ever-changing situation so it’s important you keep up to date with the current status in your state or territory. For those living with an immunodeficiency please seek guidance specific to your illness from your medical team particularly if you suffer from respiratory issues.
COVID-19 – immunodeficiency and vaccines
With the implementation of Australia’s COVID-19 vaccine national rollout strategy, we have had a range of questions from our members about what this will mean for people with primary or secondary immunodeficiency.
We have compiled a list of resources for you which provide information specific to the immunodeficiency community, the vaccines available in Australia and the national rollout strategy.
COVID-19 Resources
ASCIA COVID-19 Resources
- ASCIA – COVID-19 vaccine FAQ’s for those living with allergy, immunodeficiency and autoimmunity
- ASCIA – Guide: Immunodeficiency, Autoimmunity and COVID-19 Vaccination
- ASCIA – Allergy, Immunodeficiency and Autoimmunity COVID-19 Vaccination Position Statement
- ASCIA Position Statement – COVID-19 Prophylaxis in People with Immune Deficiencies
- ASCIA – Evusheld for COVID-19 prophylaxis
Australia Government COVID-19 Resources
- Australian Government – Department of Health – updates for COVID-19 vaccines
- Australian Government – Department of Health – Australia’s vaccine national rollout strategy
- Australian Government – Department of Health – Information for people with disability about COVID-19 vaccines
- Australian Government – Department of Health – COVID-19 health alert information