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.

Read their stories and hear directly from the people driving change for everyone with asthma.

Their asthma journey through lived experience

Alison stopped breathing when bushfire smoke triggered her asthma

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