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Shining a light on what asthma really looks like.
Asthma affects nearly 2.8 million Australians, with children carrying the greatest burden. It remains a serious health concern, responsible for at least one death every day and contributing to around 32,000 hospitalisations in 2023–24 — despite 90% of these being considered potentially preventable. Yet for many, asthma is still misunderstood, often creating fear, uncertainty, and isolation.
For more than 60 years, Asthma Australia has been the leading charity supporting people with asthma and their communities. Central to this work are the voices of those who live with asthma every day. Their stories offer insight, connection, and hope — helping others feel less alone while guiding the change needed to improve asthma outcomes nationwide.
Our Asthma Champions share their lived experience to shine a light on what asthma really looks like, influence better care, and speak up for the millions of Australians navigating this condition. Their voices strengthen our advocacy, shape our programs, and help us build a future where asthma is better understood and better managed.
Faces of asthma: our Consumer Advisory Council share their lived experience
It’s not ‘just’ asthma. It’s real people. real stories. real impact.
Alison stopped breathing when bushfire smoke triggered her asthma
Lincoln made a life-saving call to 000 and Alison was taken to hospital. If not for Lincoln’s brave actions, she probably wouldn’t have made it.
Katrina shares her story
One day I couldn’t catch my breath and had to leave work. That afternoon I went to the doctor and was diagnosed with asthma.
Tina’s account of her daughter’s fatal asthma attack
Breah had asthma all her life. She was diagnosed when she was about four or five. Her triggers seemed to be just about everything. Pollen, cold air, wood smoke.
Matty was found with a puffer in his hand. But it was too late.
Find out moreOne ordinary day changed everything.
Despite taking his puffer, Mitchell couldn’t take a full breath. He was coughing uncontrollably, gasping for air. Then he just collapsed to the ground.
