Rugby League Legend Wally Lewis Advocates for Funding into Concussion Research

Rugby league legend Wally Lewis is not just known for his incredible skills on the field, but also for his advocacy off the field. The Queensland great is set to make a powerful plea for increased funding into concussion and traumatic brain injuries research at the National Press Club today.

Lewis, who was diagnosed with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in 2023, has been vocal about the importance of understanding and preventing such conditions in athletes. Alongside the Concussion and CTE Coalition, Lewis is calling for $18 million in funding from the government to support a pilot program for those living with CTE, as well as community awareness and prevention initiatives.

The coalition is also pushing for more research to establish a clear link between repeated traumatic brain injuries, like concussions, and the development of CTE later in life. With Lewis and other former athletes like Collingwood premiership player Nathan Murphy speaking out about their own experiences with concussions and CTE, the need for further research and support is more pressing than ever.

Murphy, who recently retired from AFL due to multiple concussions, will join Lewis at the National Press Club to share his story and advocate for better care for athletes at risk of CTE. With CTE being the only preventable form of dementia, the push for increased funding and awareness is crucial in protecting the long-term health of athletes across all sports.