Menzies was established in 1985 as an independent organisation under the Menzies Act 1985, giving it the legal authority to operate and carry out research in its own name. In 2004, the Act was updated to formalise our partnership with Charles Darwin University (CDU), and today we are a major partner and form part of its Institute of Advanced Studies.
For 40 years, we’ve been leading health research in the Northern Territory and beyond, with offices in Darwin, Alice Springs and Timor-Leste.
We tackle big health challenges—like rheumatic heart disease, malaria, tuberculosis, and hearing loss—while developing solutions in mental health, child development, nutrition, and the impacts of climate change. Our work strengthens healthcare systems and empowers communities through education, training, and capacity building.
Although we began in the Territory, our impact is global. We lead research across the Asia-Pacific, always guided by the belief that everyone deserves access to high-quality healthcare—especially those who need it most.
By combining scientific knowledge with cultural wisdom, we work to close the gap, build healthier communities, and train the next generation of health experts.
Our mission is simple: to shape a healthier, more equitable future where every community can thrive.
Our current impact:
- Over the next 30 years, improved health outcomes from our research are estimated to generate $1.6 billion in global economic benefits, with each dollar spent generating $1.65 for Australia and $4.27 worldwide
- 150+ research projects and programs
- 60+ remote community partnerships across central and northern Australia
- Pioneering global and tropical health work extending into 20+ countries across the Asia-Pacific