Recognising Consumers’ Contributions to Health Research

Consumer engagement is increasingly expected in Australian health and medical research, yet there is no national approach to remunerating consumers for their contributions. This report, a collaboration between Research Australia and the National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health at the Australian National University, describes the co-design of a national recognition framework using a three-phase mixed-methods design: a rapid review of peer-reviewed literature, grey literature and existing Australian remuneration policies; a national survey of Research Australia member organisations; and six deliberative workshops with consumers and organisational representatives, guided by a ten-member Consumer Remuneration Working Group. Survey respondents reported high recognition of consumer contributions (92%) but inconsistent financial remuneration (56%), with administrative complexity and unclear funding guidance cited as key barriers; 93% supported national guidelines. Workshops reached consensus on rates of AUD $50 per hour for research participation and $40–50 per hour for collaborative roles, full reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses, flexible payment methods, and non-financial recognition such as co-authorship and skills development. The report presents what it describes as Australia’s first co-designed recognition framework and seven recommendations for national implementation.