National Pain Week is held annually in July and raises awareness about chronic pain and its impact on daily life, work, mental health and family relationships. Chronic pain affects millions of Australians and is often misunderstood, under-treated or minimised.
The week focuses on improving understanding of pain, supporting people living with long-term conditions and encouraging access to appropriate care and support.
Why it matters
- Persistent pain affects daily life, work, relationships and mental wel-lbeing.
- Chronic pain is often invisible, making it harder for people to be believed, supported or taken seriously.
- Poorly managed pain can lead to isolation, reduced mobility, financial stress and reduced quality of life.
- Many people experience delays in diagnosis, fragmented care or limited access to appropriate pain services.
- Greater awareness helps shift pain from being dismissed to being recognised as a legitimate health condition.
- Understanding pain supports better care coordination and helps people advocate for appropriate treatment and support.
National Pain Week raises awareness of the impact of chronic pain and promotes better understanding, care and support for people living with pain.
Event Co-ordination / Support
International
- International Association for the Study of Pain
Global organisation dedicated to pain research, education, and clinical practice, supporting evidence-based approaches to pain management worldwide.
Australia
- Chronic Pain Australia
National consumer organisation representing Australians living with chronic pain, leading advocacy, awareness and lived experience-driven reform.
