History

The Asthma Foundation of NSW was officially founded on 14 December 1961. The founding members were a small group of citizens who felt "that more money and effort should be applied to the study of asthma and to alleviate the suffering of persons afflicted with asthma and allied conditions".

In reality, it was the personal mission of two mothers who wanted to do more to help their children with asthma by ensuring that everyone knew more about the condition, its causes and its management. One of the principal objects of the Foundation was the establishment of a research program to look into the causes, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of asthma.

Today, Asthma NSW continues this work by aiming to provide funds for research into asthma, and to provide education and information to the community. Each year $300,000 - $400,000 is provided for research into the causes, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of asthma, with the long-term aim to find a cure. We provide support, information and counselling to over 5,800 people each year through our Telephone Advice Line. Hundreds of children have benefited in the past 40 years from the Asthma NSW Children's Camps and Swimming Program.

Asthma NSW is funded by the generosity of individuals, community-oriented groups and businesses in New South Wales that recognise the importance of eradicating asthma as a major health problem. Since its founding in 1961, Asthma NSW has always believed that non-reliance on government funding is a real organisational strength. The founding board of Asthma NSW resolved to build a strong funding support base in the community for its work. Because Asthma NSW is not reliant on government funding, we are able to be strong advocates for the people of this state who are affected by asthma.