Our programs

 

Cystic Fibrosis Queensland is one of Australia’s largest and oldest organisations supporting people living with chronic illness. Founded in 1960, our mission has evolved over time to encompass more than service provision and now includes advocacy, education, research funding, community services as well as subsidising airway clearance and nebuliser equipment and the provision of loan oxygen concentrators.

Please review our full compliment of programs.​

Cystic Fibrosis Queensland is the peak community not for profit charity working with and for the increasing number of people living with cystic fibrosis who attend a Queensland Health clinic for treatment. We advocate for the entire cystic fibrosis community and seek to raise much needed awareness of this debilitating condition – 90% of our income relies on fundraising.

 

Patient Safety Initiative

Ryan’s Rule

Ryan’s Rule is a patient safety initiative in Queensland, Australia, designed to empower patients and families to act if they feel their health concerns are not being properly addressed during a hospital stay.

What does it mean for patients? You have the right to escalate care. If you or your loved one is in a Queensland public hospital, and you feel that your concerns about a patient’s condition are not being taken seriously — or if the patient’s condition is getting worse and you’re not being heard — Ryan’s Rule lets you escalate the situation for urgent review.

It’s simple and accessible. Ryan’s Rule is available to all patients — adults, children, and those with disabilities — in all Queensland public hospitals and health facilities.

How to activate Ryan’s Rule:

  1. Speak to the nurse or doctor about your concerns.
  2. If you’re still worried, ask to speak to the nurse in charge.
  3. If your concerns remain unresolved, call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) and request a Ryan’s Rule review.

What happens next? A senior nurse or doctor will review the patient’s condition and ensure appropriate care is provided.

Why it exists: Ryan’s Rule was introduced after the tragic death of three-year-old Ryan Saunders in 2007, whose parents’ concerns were not acted upon during his hospital stay. The rule ensures that families have a voice and a clear pathway to advocate for safer care.

Ryan’s Rule protects patients by ensuring concerns are heard, respected, and acted upon.