Our History

In the late 1950’s the unique demand for intensive care in Australia and New Zealand underscored the need for ongoing research, professional collaboration, and specialised training in critical care. Several specialist Intensive care societies and training facilities were then created ultimately leading to the forming of the Intensive Care Foundation in 1990.

Our History

The development of intensive care medicine transformed healthcare by enabling dedicated, round-the-clock treatment for critically ill patients. While general hospitals provided acute care for centuries, the unique demands of ICU care began to take shape in the early 1950s. Over the next few decades, ICUs were established in major hospitals, quickly proving their essential role in managing a broad range of life-threatening conditions. This shift underscored the need for ongoing research, professional collaboration, and specialised training in critical care.

Timeline

1952-1953

The polio epidemic in Denmark stimulated interest and research into mechanical ventilation, hence beginning the modern specialty of intensive care. The ability to prevent death from respiratory failure made a whole new range of diseases and complications amenable to treatment. Chest injuries, tetanus, and post-operative respiratory failure became common conditions treated in Intensive Care Units

1958

The first recognisable Intensive Care Unit in Australasia was founded in Auckland Hospital, New Zealand

1961

The first general Intensive Care Unit in Australia was established at St Vincent’s Melbourne

1974

ANZICS (Australia New Zealand Intensive Care Society) was formed

1980

Intensive care was recognised as a subspecialty of medicine and anaesthesia

1990

The Intensive Care Foundation was formed by ANZICS, CICM and ACCCN

2024

Since its inception, the ICF has funded early career researchers, supported innovation in intensive care practices, and offered professional development scholarships to enhance the skills of ICU professionals across Australia and New Zealand. The Intensive Care Foundation has funded over 140 research projects, contributing almost $4 million in grants to the intensive care community across Australia and New Zealand.