CVD is the leading cause of death in Australia and represents the nation’s largest disease burden.
Despite a common misconception that CVD is solely linked to lifestyle choices and largely resolved, it remains a significant and complex health issue. CVD can affect anyone—regardless of age, background, or lifestyle—and ongoing research and innovation are critical.
Australia has a world-class health and medical research sector, but continued investment is essential to maintain our momentum in tackling CVD. Without sustained funding, the sector cannot fully utilise its expertise or respond effectively to the growing challenges posed by CVD.
ACvA champions a national multidisciplinary approach to identify and close gaps in the most pressing areas of need and develop clear research priorities that will improve patient outcomes, ensuring Australia leads in life-saving discoveries, treatments, and health policy.
We advocate for a nationally coordinated cardiovascular research program that supports innovation from bench to bedside—spanning discovery, development, and delivery.
ACvA has 7 strategic flagships representing the capabilities across research spectrum: Disease Mechanisms, Drug Discovery & Translation, Biomedical Engineering, Precision Medicine, Clinical Trials, Big Data and Implementation & Policy.
These flagships conduct horizon scanning and set strategic priorities for investment in cardiovascular research to keep Australia at the forefront of tackling the CVD burden. Their insights shape ACvA’s advocacy agenda and amplify the voices of our members across the sector.

To present a unified voice and advocate for the funding and policy that supports bold, mission-focused research and innovative strategies to address CVD.

News and Publications
Browse the latest blog articles, research insights, and educational resources in cardiovascular and stroke health.

2025 National Cardiovascular Data Summit
We're just back from our National Cardiovascular Data Summit held in Canberra last Friday 27 June.Cardiovascular disease is still the leading cause of mortality in Australia and we see data playing an integral role in improving patient outcomes.

Press Release: National Summit Highlights Need for Workforce Sustainability in Cardiovascular Research Sector
Recommendations from the 2023 National Cardiovascular Workforce Sustainability Summit have been released highlighting current challenges in career progression and retention in cardiovascular research.

Press Release: ACvA Collaboration Unites Health Leaders and Researchers to Drive National Action on Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke Priorities
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading cause of death and disability in Australia. While this burden can seem overwhelming, the nation’s cardiovascular leaders believe that with improved coordination and pathways for prioritised translation our talented researchers can make substantial impacts on prevention, early disease detection and treatment.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Join our communityBe part of a national community shaping cardiovascular and stroke research. Get involved today.