Together, We Empower the MG Community

Learn about the mission, vision, and leadership of the Myasthenia Alliance Australia.

The Myasthenia Alliance Australia (MAA) is the Australian peak body representing everyone who has an interest in the conditions associated with Myasthenia Gravis.

The Alliance is a partnership of all eligible State Associations and operates to enhance the lived experience for people with these conditions.

The MAA Board aims to:

Pursue collective endeavours of mutual benefit
  • Via co-operative and supportive deployment of resources.
Project a unified voice
  • On issues which fall under the national regulators.
Advocate for best medical treatments
  • To benefit each individual in each form of the condition.
Encourage and support research
  •  Into all forms of Myasthenia.

Our Mission and Vision

Our Commitment to the Myasthenia Gravis Community

At MAA, our mission and vision shape every initiative we undertake, ensuring a future where individuals with Myasthenia Gravis receive the care, support, and recognition they deserve.

We are dedicated to fostering awareness, supporting advanced research, and advocating for policies that improve the quality of life for all MG Warriors.

Mission Statement

To empower individuals with Myasthenia Gravis by providing resources, information, advocacy, and research to support and enhance their quality of life, ensuring fair and equitable access to care and treatments.

MAA’s work focuses on offering practical tools, fostering connections, and driving systemic changes to improve the lives of those affected by MG.

Vision Statement

A future where every individual impacted by Myasthenia Gravis thrives with access to timely, effective care and a supportive community.

This reflects MAA’s aspiration to build an inclusive environment where MG patients and their families feel supported, informed, and hopeful.

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Stay Connected with Myasthenia Alliance Australia

As the national voice for Myasthenia Gravis (MG), MAA is committed to advocacy, research, and community support. Stay informed about our latest initiatives, partnerships, and policy efforts by subscribing to the MAA News Feed.

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Meet Our Leadership Team

Guided by Experience, United in Purpose

Our team comprises passionate professionals and MG Warriors dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by Myasthenia Gravis across Australia.

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Susan White

Susan White

Chairperson & MGAQ Information Officer

Susan leads MAA with a steadfast commitment to advocacy and support for the Myasthenia Gravis community, ensuring the organisation’s mission is effectively pursued. She brings invaluable personal insight, having lived with myasthenia for many years and undergone a wide range of treatments. This lived experience shapes her vision for a more inclusive future - one where every Australian has broad and equitable access to quality MG care, no matter where they live.

Natalie Widdle

Natalie Windle

Secretary & MGNSW      President

Natalie coordinates the MAA’s advocacy work and assists with stakeholder engagement and communications, fostering equitable and timely access to treatments and quality care for Myasthenia patients in Australia. As MAA Secretary she manages MAA's administrative functions, maintaining organisational integrity. Natalie brings her professional background in policy, public affairs and communications, along with her postgraduate study in public health, to her work with MAA and Myasthenia Gravis Association of New South Wales (MGNSW).

Carol Buchanan

Carol Buchanan

Board Member & MGAQ President

Carol brings over 20 years of lived experience with Myasthenia Gravis and a longstanding commitment to advocacy and support. She currently serves as Chairperson of the Myasthenia Gravis Association of Queensland (MGAQ) and has been a driving force within the Myasthenia Alliance Australia (MAA) since its inception. Carol’s dedication ensures that the voice of the MG community is heard nationally, and she continues to champion awareness, strengthen support networks, and empower others navigating life with MG.

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Craig Streatfield

Board Member & MGAQ Committee Member

Craig handles IT challenges and collaborates with industry partners on specific projects, strengthening MAA's technological infrastructure.

Glenda Bidner V1.0

Glenda
Bidner

Board Member & MGNSW Committee Member

Glenda contributes to MAA's initiatives, bringing valuable perspectives and dedication to the Myasthenia Gravis community. With over 40 years of involvement, she brings deep experience and a longstanding commitment to supporting and empowering those living with MG.

Lisa Wright

Lisa
Wright

Board Member & MGAQ Committee Member

Lisa contributes to MAA’s strategic initiatives, helping to expand awareness of MG in the community. Her focus is on expanding the understanding of the lived experience of people with MG through research and partnering with Australian Universities.

Dr Stephen Reddel

Dr. Stephen Reddel

Medical Advisory Board Member

Dr. Reddel provides expert neurological insight to MAA, guiding research discussions and clinical advancements in MG. His commitment to innovation helps improve patient treatment options.

Dr Katherine Buzzard

Dr. Katherine Buzzard

Medical Advisory Board Member

Dr. Buzzard is passionate about improving MG treatment and patient well-being. She advises MAA on best practices, research developments, and emerging care strategies.

Dr Stefan Blum

Dr. Stefan
Blum

Medical Advisory Board Member

Dr. Blum specialises in neuromuscular disorders, offering MAA his expertise in MG research and treatment. His work bridges the gap between medical advancements and patient care.

Our Role in the Myasthenia Gravis Community

Building a Stronger, More Connected Myasthenia Gravis Community

At MAA, we are committed to empowering individuals impacted by Myasthenia Gravis. Through comprehensive resources, unwavering advocacy at the highest levels of government, and community-driven initiatives, we strive to build a stronger, more united network of support and understanding.

MAA Role

Key Roles of MAA

Advocacy
  • We collaborate with federal organisations, policymakers, and healthcare providers to ensure that the needs of the Myasthenia Gravis community are heard and addressed.
    • Example Initiative: Advocating for improved access to advanced treatments and raising awareness during MG Awareness Month.
  • We promote and support research into Myasthenia Gravis to advance treatments and improve quality of life. We also educate the public and healthcare professionals about the condition.
    • Example Initiative: Collaborating with research institutions and providing educational webinars and conference.
  • We bring together individuals, families, and professionals to build a strong, supportive MG community across Australia.
    • Example Initiative: Organising events like the Art with Heart Auction to foster connection and raise funds.

Our Journey: Years of Advocacy & Impact

Since its establishment in 2014, Myasthenia Alliance Australia (MAA) has worked tirelessly to unite the MG patient voice, advocate for better treatments, and drive research and policy change. Over the past decade, MAA has achieved significant milestones, from hosting national MG conferences to securing government advocacy wins, research funding, and medical advancements.

Explore our timeline, highlighting the key events and progress shaping Myasthenia Gravis advocacy in Australia.

Updated MAA Timeline 1
Updated MAA Timeline 2

MAA Board Reports

Transparent Leadership, Informed Community: Stay Updated with MAA’s Board Reports

Transparency and accountability are key values of Myasthenia Alliance Australia (MAA). Our Board Reports provide updates on our initiatives, advocacy efforts, research collaborations, and strategic priorities.

These reports offer insight into our work and progress, ensuring the Myasthenia Gravis community stays informed and engaged.

Board Reports

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Get Practical Advice for Managing MG

From treatment options to lifestyle adjustments, stay up to date with real-world insights on managing MG. Sign up for the MAA News Feed and receive valuable information that can help you live well with MG.

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Latest News & Updates from MAA

Stay up to date with the latest developments in Myasthenia Alliance Australia (MAA). This section highlights key advocacy efforts, policy updates, community initiatives, and organisational milestones shaping the future of MG care and awareness in Australia.

Read the latest updates below.

MG Patient Advocacy Organisation (PAO) Summit 1
Why volunteer? Experiencing the MG Patient Advocacy Organisation (PAO) Summit is just one example!
Conversations continue new treatments
MAA Achievement Poster
VALUE-MG Article
How Australians living with Myasthenia Gravis are shaping the future of MG treatment decisions
New MAA Website Goes Live
New MAA Website Goes Live!
18th ICNMD Patient Summary