Megan Gaukroger, a 49-year-old from Inverell, NSW, has grappled with debilitating migraines for almost two decades. Her specific condition, known as sporadic hemiplegic migraine, manifests in severe attacks that can last weeks or even months, often resembling the symptoms of a stroke. She recalled her last severe episode, which extended over four weeks and left her with total paralysis on the left side of her body, slurred speech, and disorienting visual disturbances, also known as aura.
In addition to the acute pain during these attacks, Megan endures a dreaded “migraine hangover” for days afterward, which drains her energy and leaves her feeling disconnected. Despite impacting numerous Australians—around five million—migraine remains inadequately recognised. This lack of acknowledgment extends to the upcoming census, where migraine will not be classified as a distinct medical condition. Charity leaders in the migraine community express deep disappointment over this decision, stressing that it perpetuates the condition’s invisibility within health policy and funding frameworks.
According to Chloe Cifelli, a board member of Migraine Australia, this absence in national statistics hinders necessary care access for those affected. The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) clarified that their decision stemmed from confusion amongst respondents regarding the definition of a migraine, leading to its omission from the 2026 Census. They highlighted that this misconception underscores the pressing need for improved public understanding of migraine.
Migraine is one of the most prevalent neurological disorders worldwide, predominantly affecting women. It is characterized by severe one-sided headaches accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to external stimuli, numbness, and sometimes visual disturbances. Medical professionals still lack a complete understanding of the underlying causes of migraines. For those like Megan, the struggle against this invisible ailment continues, revealing the urgent requirement for heightened awareness and support in the Australian healthcare system.