Response to the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) Research Missions Program Consultation

This submission responds to the consultation on the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) Research Missions Program, drawing on Research Australia’s attendance at the February 2026 virtual consultation and input from members Arthritis Australia, La Trobe University, Macquarie University and WEHI. It reports broad support for the mission-driven model because of its long-term funding, cross-sector collaboration and capacity to attract co-investment, illustrated by a Macquarie University aged care informatics project whose BestConnect medication tool is now available to more than 1,200 residential aged care homes. Research Australia’s first recommendation is to raise MRFF disbursements from the current $650 million a year to the $1.1 billion available in 2026–27 under the Future Fund Board of Guardians’ determination. It recommends a transparent Theory of Change and outcomes framework for each Mission and the Program as a whole, alignment with the National Health and Medical Research Strategy and other national frameworks, better coordination within Missions using collective impact models, and a role for states and territories in setting priorities and co-investing. It proposes a common set of priorities for all Missions: ring-fenced health services research and implementation science, collaboration, genuine partnership with consumers supported by a remuneration framework, early and mid-career researchers, clinician researchers, equity and regional, rural, remote and very remote communities. It also asks that short two-stage application timelines and gaps in cultural safety and accessibility in grant processes be addressed.