State backs Big Freeze with $250,000 donation

VICTORIA has pledged $250,000 to Neale Daniher’s FightMND campaign, backing efforts to fund research and support people living with Motor Neurone Disease.

The donation will go towards this year’s Big Freeze, which was held last week at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Daniher, a former Essendon captain and Melbourne coach, was diagnosed with MND in 2013 and has since raised more than $115 million through FightMND. He was named Australian of the Year for 2025 in recognition of his work.

Premier Jacinta Allan said the state would continue to support efforts to find a cure for what Daniher calls The Beast.

“We’re proud to back FightMND and the vital research to find a cure for this devastating disease,” Allan said.

“Neale Daniher’s fight has become Australia’s fight – and we stand with him, and every family affected by MND.”

About 400 Victorians and 2000 Australians are living with MND, which gradually robs people of the ability to walk, speak and breathe.

Member for Pakenham Emma Vulin said Daniher’s leadership had profoundly raised awareness of the condition.

“Neale and his family’s dedication has profoundly raised awareness of MND, and I’m honoured we are continuing to support the Big Freeze as it marks its 11th year,” she said.

For more information, visit the FightMND website.