Denim will be at the top of everyone's 'what to wear' list as workplaces, schools and communities around Australia gear up to raise money this Jeans for Genes Day.

Money raised will support scientists at Children's Medical Research Institute to help change the lives of the 12,000 children born with a congenital abnormality or genetic disease each year.

Every dollar makes a difference and funds research into birth defects including cancer, epilepsy and a range of genetic disorders.

A gold coin donation will buy enough of the crucial enzyme needed to test the blood of one patient for aggressive types of cancers.

Five dollars can buy a plastic 96-in-one test tube so that 96 potential epilepsy drugs can be screened at one time.

The work of the scientists at CMRI aims to improve and extend the lives of children everywhere.

Many retailers will stock the Jeans for Genes Day merchandise range, and donations can be made directly by clicking here.