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Our Role

What is Our Purpose?

Lipoedema Australia is the national representative body for lipoedema. As a registered charity, we are committed to directing and supporting research and medical recognition of lipoedema, developing a comprehensive treatment/management plan and ultimately finding a cure. We are also dedicated to improving the lives of individuals affected by lipoedema.

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Lipoedema Australia’s Vision

A world where lipoedema is easily recognised, well supported and treated effectively.

Lipoedema Australia’s Mission

To raise awareness, promote acceptance of and advocate for those living with lipoedema

Australian Charities and Not for Profits Commission Registration Seal with a blue and green stylised ribbon in the centre

Charitable Status

Lipoedema Australia is incorporated under the Corporations Act 2001 and the
Australian Charities and Not for Profits Commission Act 2012.

Our Objectives

At Lipoedema Australia, our key objectives are to:

Raise awareness about lipoedema among the general public, healthcare professionals, and policymakers
Advocate for and provide support to women who have been diagnosed with lipoedema, including access to evidence-based treatments and management strategies
Provide helpful information and resources for ongoing management of lipoedema, based on the latest medical research and evidence-based practice
Direct and support medical research to improve our understanding of lipoedema, and develop more effective treatments
Maintain a safe and supportive online community for individuals affected by lipoedema to connect and share their experiences

Our organisation operates entirely with the help of volunteers, and the board is composed mainly of individuals who suffer from lipoedema. Despite not being health practitioners, our dedicated team offers valuable support and information through our closed Facebook group, website, biennial conferences, and other public and private events.

We are passionate about raising awareness of lipoedema and advocating for and supporting individuals who are impacted by this condition. Our goal is to provide individuals with lipoedema the resources and tools they need to manage their condition, so they can live their lives to the fullest. Through our information and resources for ongoing management of lipoedema, we aim to improve the quality of life of all those affected by lipoedema.

If you have lipoedema or suspect you may have the condition, we encourage you to join our closed Facebook group and become a part of our community. Our closed Facebook group is a safe space to share your thoughts and experiences with other people similarly affected. To join our Facebook group, click the button below and answer all questions.

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Governance

Our organisation is governed by a board which is accountable for complying with government regulations and is subject to audit.

The board meets monthly, and is responsible for setting and driving the strategic direction of Lipoedema Australia.

Our board members, including directors, are volunteers and receive no remuneration for their service. The board comprises:

A Chair and Vice Chair appointed by the Board
A Financial Manager and Public Officer appointed by the board
A Health Practitioner with experience working with lipoedema patients
Seven non-director members, appointed by the board based on their skills and capability to contribute to the running and strategic growth of the organisation.

Advisory Board

In addition to the board and established in 2023, the Advisory Board members are multi-disciplined health practitioners whose role it is to to provide professional advice to the board on medical matters, contribute to the sharing of medical information with our constituents, and help the board in the pursuit to have lipoedema recognised in the Australian health care system.

Members of the Advisory Board have been appointed based on their professional skill specialisation and experience in the treatment of lipoedema, across the following disciplines including: