Hudson Institute to merge with Monash University amid funding crisis

The Hudson Institute of Medical Research will cease operating independently and merge into Monash University, resulting in at least 75 job losses. The 66-year-old institute, which specializes in childhood cancer, inflammation, and women’s health, reported back-to-back deficits exceeding $5 million across the 2024 and 2025 financial years.

This move highlights a broader financial crisis within Victoria’s medical research sector, attributed to stagnant federal and state government funding. Industry representatives warn that up to 10 of Victoria’s 14 independent research institutes could be forced to close by 2030.

Other major institutions are already facing instability. The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute recently restructured from 12 divisions to four following an $82 million operating deficit over two years, while the National Ageing Research Institute has warned it faces potential closure by 2030 without improved funding.