MRFF Strategy 2021–26 and the Related Priorities: Response to the Consultation

This response to the consultation on the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) Strategy 2021–26 and related Priorities reproduces Research Australia’s answers to an online survey run for the Australian Medical Research Advisory Board (AMRAB), with each answer limited to 200 words. On the Strategy, it maintains that the current Vision focuses on the health system rather than the population, that each objective needs a statement of how the MRFF will achieve it, and that a separate Strategic Platform for Preventive and Public Health is needed. Citing the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) audit, it recommends active engagement with state and territory health systems to embed research evidence in practice, coordinated research infrastructure funding with the Department of Education, Skills and Employment and the states, clearer differentiation from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), a national health and medical research strategy, better support for early and mid-career researchers (EMCRs) affected by COVID-19, and use of Australian research capability to support regional neighbours. On the Priorities, it recommends a capacity-building priority covering health services research, health economics and implementation science, including Health Services Research Fellowships with placements in service organisations, a targeted research workforce review, a new priority for implementation research and evaluation, and broadening the Public Health Interventions priority to cover preventive health. It also notes the absence of any public evaluation of the current Strategy.