Innovative treatments and transformational care
For people at risk of or living with lymphoedema and the health professionals who care for them, the Australian Lymphoedema Education, Research and Treatment Centre (ALERT) provides world-leading integrated personalised treatment.
university-accredited provider of lymphoedema education
to improve patient outcomes
distinctive clinical technologies and industry partnerships
The ALERT Centre was recognised as a LE&RN Centre of Excellence – Lymphatic Disease Network in 2020 for its exceptional multidisciplinary care and services for people affected by lymphatic disease (LD) and their families. In 2025, this recognition was renewed and elevated, with the Centre upgraded to a LE&RN Comprehensive Center of Excellence (COE) in lymphatic disease.
Read more about the Lymphatic Education and Research Network.
Our strategic priorities
Our vision
A world where individuals with lymphoedema, lipoedema or chronic oedema have access to early diagnosis, effective treatment and support, empowering them to live healthy lives.
Our mission
Delivering high-standard personalised clinical care, evidence-based education and innovative research in the field of lymphoedema, lipoedema and chronic oedemas.
We seek to:
- be the leading provider of continuing professional development and postgraduate qualifications for health professionals
- advance scientific understanding in early diagnosis and innovative treatments through rigorous research, collaboration and patient-centred care
- position our clinic as the leading national multidisciplinary 'one-stop shop' provider.
About lymphoedema
Lymphoedema is a chronic condition caused by a functional overload of the lymphatic system, where lymph volume surpasses its transport capacity.
This under-researched and poorly understood condition can:
- significantly affect physical and psychological well-being
- diminish quality of life
- impose substantial costs on patients and healthcare systems.
Its prevalence is rising due to increased cancer survival rates and longer life expectancy. There are two types of lymphoedema:
Primary
This is due to abnormal lymphatics. It can occur at any age from infancy to old age.
Secondary
This is most commonly caused by cancer treatment to the lymph nodes, but can also be caused by other trauma.
Sam shares her lymphoedema journey after breast cancer
Vicki shares her primary leg lymphoedema journey
A/Prof Koelmeyer and Lyn discuss benefits of surgery intervention
A/Prof Koelmeyer and Sophie discuss her ICG journey
Education
We deliver innovative training programs which will empower lymphoedema healthcare providers.
See our education programs
Research
Our collaborative research is used to shape health policy and evidence-based practice.
Learn about our research
Treatment
Discover the full range of treatments our clinic can provide.
Visit Lymphoedema clinic
People
Learn about our education, research and treatment team members.
Meet our teamsContact us
ALERT education