The Federal Government is funding research on a new national plan for congenital/childhood heart disease. 

The National Childhood Heart Disease Action Plan will be jointly developed with HeartKids, which has been granted $150,000 to undertake the work. 

Congenital conditions, including congenital heart disease, are the leading cause of death for Australian infants and the second leading cause of death for children.

Unlike other cardiovascular problems, which commonly present in adults over 45 years, congenital heart disease has its greatest impact on the young. 

Eight babies are born with congenital/childhood heart disease every day, with four passing away each week. There is currently no known cure. 

“The Plan will be a co-ordinated policy for this disease and it recognises the fantastic work already undertaken by HeartKids,” Health Minister Greg Hunt said in a statement.

“It will also drive collaboration in research priorities, education, services and community awareness to better support people living with this condition.”