Annual Report 2015–2016

National Health and Medical Research Council 

Annual Report 2015–2016

Publication Details 

Publication title: 

National Health and Medical Research Council Annual Report 

2015–2016 

Published: October 2016 

Publisher: 


NHMRC Publication reference: NH172 

Online version: 

www.nhmrc.gov.au/guidelines/publications/nh172 

ISBN Print: 978-1-925129-74-8 

ISBN Online: 978-1-925129-73-1 

Suggested citation: 

National Health and Medical Research Council Annual Report 

2015–2016. Canberra: National Health and Medical Research 

Council 

Cover and back image: 

Eve, Year 3/4–Marie Bashir Public School 

Design: 

giraffe.com.au 

Printing: 

Bytes ‘n Colours 

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© Commonwealth of Australia 2016 

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org.au), with the exception of the Commonwealth 

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NHMRC would like to acknowledge the Marie Bashir Public School, Strathfield NSW for their artistic 

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creative contributions from the Marie Bashir Public School. 

Contact us 

To obtain information regarding NHMRC publications or submit a copyright request, contact: 

E: nhmrc.publications@nhmrc.gov.au 

P: (02) 6217 9000

A HEALTHY START TO LIFE 

NHMRC is committed to 

improving the health 

and wellbeing of 

Australia’s children 

and young people. 

CONGENITAL ABNORMALITIES (CYSTIC FIBROSIS, FETAL ALCOHOL SYNDROME, ETC) 

$31M 

A HEALTHY START TO LIFE for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children $20M 

DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS (ADHD, AUTISM, DYSLEXIA, ETC) 

CHILDHOOD CANCERS 

$14 M 

$12 M 

Annual Report of the National Health and Medical Research Council 2015–2016 

i

The Hon Sussan Ley MP 

Minister for Health and Aged Care 

Parliament House 

Canberra ACT 2600 

GPO Box 1421 | Canberra ACT 2601 

16 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra City ACT 2600 

T. 13 000 NHMRC (13 000 64672) or +61 2 6217 9000 

F. +61 2 6217 9100 

E. nhmrc@nhmrc.gov.au 

ABN 88 601 010 284 

www.nhmrc.gov.au 

Dear Minister 

I am pleased to present the National Health and Medical Research Council Annual Report 

for 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2016. 

During the reporting period, National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) has 

continued to deliver on the strategic directions of managing investment in health and 

medical research, developing evidence-based health advice, providing advice on ethical 

practice in health care and the conduct of medical research, and performing functions 

under the Prohibition of Human Cloning for Reproduction Act 2002 and the Research 

Involving Human Embryos Act 2002. 

The report has been prepared in accordance with section 70 of the Public Service Act 

1999, section 83 of the National Health and Medical Research Council Act 1992 (NHMRC 

Act), section 46 of the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 and 

the Requirements for Annual Reports approved by the Joint Committee of Public Accounts 

and Audit. 

I certify that I am satisfied that NHMRC has in place appropriate fraud risk assessment 

and fraud control plans, fraud prevention, detection, investigation, reporting and data 

collection procedures and processes, in accordance with the Australian Government Fraud 

Control Guidelines. NHMRC has taken all reasonable measures to minimise the instance 

of fraud, investigate fraud and recover the proceeds of fraud against it. 

Yours sincerely 

Professor Anne Kelso AO 

Chief Executive Officer 

17 October 2016 

ii 

Annual Report of the National Health and Medical Research Council 2015–2016

CONTENTS 

ABOUT THE REPORT 

V 

PART 1 OVERVIEW 1 

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S REVIEW 2 

ABOUT US 6 

NHMRC’S EXECUTIVE 7 

RESEARCH FUNDING EXPENDITURE 9 

NHMRC FUNDING SNAPSHOT 10 

PROMOTING EXCELLENCE THROUGH THE NHMRC AWARDS 11 

PART 2 PERFORMANCE REPORT 23 

OUTCOMES AND PROGRAM STRUCTURE 25 

RESULTS SUMMARY 26 

INVESTMENT 31 

TRANSLATION 55 

INTEGRITY 74 

PART 3 OPERATING ENVIRONMENT 85 

LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK 86 

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 87 

EXTERNAL SCRUTINY 93 

COMPLIANCE AND ASSURANCE 94 

RESEARCH INTEGRITY 98 

ACCOUNTABILITY 99 

CORRECTION OF MATERIAL ERRORS IN PREVIOUS ANNUAL REPORT 105 

PART 4 PEOPLE MANAGEMENT 109 

PEOPLE 110 

PART 5 FINANCIAL REPORT 119 

FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE SUMMARY 120 

AGENCY RESOURCE STATEMENT 121 

NHMRC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2015–16 122 

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT 123 

STATEMENT BY THE ACCOUNTABLE AUTHORITY AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER 125 

PART 6 APPENDICES 161 

APPENDIX 1: EXECUTIVE BIOGRAPHIES 160 

APPENDIX 2: THE COUNCIL OF THE NHMRC 162 

APPENDIX 3: RESEARCH COMMITTEE 169 

APPENDIX 4: AUSTRALIAN HEALTH ETHICS COMMITTEE 170 

APPENDIX 5: EMBRYO RESEARCH LICENSING COMMITTEE 171 

APPENDIX 6: HEALTH TRANSLATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE 172 

APPENDIX 7: HEALTH INNOVATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE 173 

APPENDIX 8: COMMISSIONER OF COMPLAINTS BIOGRAPHY 174 

APPENDIX 9: PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS 175 

APPENDIX 10: GLOSSARY AND ACRONYMS 176 

APPENDIX 11: COMPLIANCE CHECK LIST 178 

INDEX 185 


iii

LIST OF FIGURES 

Figure 1 NHMRC organisational structure as at 30 June 2016 8 

Figure 2 

Medical Research Endowment Account: new grant commitments, revenue, 

grant payments and the MREA balance 9 

Figure 3 NHMRC strategy for health and medical research 24 

Figure 4 NHMRC strategy – investment 31 

Figure 5 Expenditure by National Health Priority Area 33 

Figure 6 Expenditure by Science and Research Priority 35 

Figure 7 Expenditure by Broad Research Area 35 

Figure 8 NHMRC strategy – translation 55 

Figure 9 NHMRC strategy – integrity 74 

Figure 10 NHMRC governance structure 87 

Figure 11 Breakdown by classification level as at 30 June 2016 110 

Figure 12 Number of men and women by classification level 111 

Figure 13 Classification breakdown by age 112 

LIST OF TABLES 

Table 1 NHMRC funding summary 2015–16 10 

Table 2 Portfolio Budget Statement – NHMRC expenses and resources 25 

Table 3 Expenditure for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health 33 

Table 4 Expenditure by National Health Priority Area 33 

Table 5 Expenditure by Science and Research Priority 34 

Table 6 Expenditure by Broad Research Area 35 

Table 7 Funding for Centres of Research Excellence 36 

Table 8 Funding for Targeted Calls for Research 37 

Table 9 People support outcomes by broad research area 39 

Table 10 People support outcomes by gender 40 

Table 11 People support outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander research 41 

Table 12 Percentage of women as Chief Investigators 42 

Table 13 NHMRC commitments by research focus 56 

Table 14 Advice provided to Government 63 

Table 15 Clinical practice guidelines approved by NHMRC 65 

Table 16 Grants awarded for each Career Development Fellowship stream 69 

Table 17 NHMRC commitments to research translation focussed funding programs 71 

Table 18 Inspections undertaken by the ERLC under the RIHE Act and PHCR Act 2015–16 91 

Table 19 Freedom of Information requests 2015–16 97 

Table 20 Consultancy contract expenditure from 2011–12 to 2015–16 100 

Table 21 Consultancy services let during 2015–16 of $10,000 or more 101 

Table 22 Numbers of complaints received by NHMRC 2015–16 102 

Table 23 Tenant light and power 104 

Table 24 NHMRC employee overview as at 30 June 2016 110 

Table 25 

Representation of equal employment opportunity groups as a percentage of staff, 

at 30 June 2016 112 

Table 26 NHMRC salary ranges by classification as at 30 June 2016 113 

iv 


ABOUT THE REPORT 

This report was prepared in accordance with Public Governance, Performance and Accountability 

(non‐corporate Commonwealth Entity) Annual Reporting Rule 2016. It contains information on NHMRC’s 

organisation, administration and performance for the reporting period 2015–16. 

It is a record of NHMRC’s activities during 2015–16 and the performance and financial information presented 

in the 2015–16 NHMRC Portfolio (Agency) Budget Statements, 2015–16 NHMRC Portfolio Additional 

Estimates Statement and the NHMRC Corporate Plan 2015-2016. 

The report is structured as follows: 

PART ONE: OVERVIEW 

Part one explains NHMRC’s broad strategic directions and priorities for 2015–16. It describes NHMRC’s 

role and organisational structure, introduces the senior executive, notes key issues, and outlines the 

organisation’s future directions. 

PART TWO: PERFORMANCE REPORT 

Part two reports on NHMRC’s performance against the program of work under the Portfolio Budget 

Statement and Corporate Plan. It outlines NHMRC’s achievements and includes information on our 

major projects. 

PART THREE: OPERATING ENVIRONMENT 

Part three discusses NHMRC’s legislative, governance, compliance and assurance arrangements. It provides 

information to satisfy the reporting requirements of various Commonwealth legislation and Australian 

Government policies, including Freedom of Information and ecologically sustainable development. 

PART FOUR: PEOPLE MANAGEMENT 

Part four includes information on people management, including workforce demographics. 

PART FIVE: FINANCIAL REPORT 

Part five contains the complete set of NHMRC audited financial statements prepared in accordance with the 

Public Governance, Performance and Accountability (Financial Reporting) Rule 2015. 

PART SIX: APPENDICES 

The appendices contain statutory reporting information, including on the composition, functions and chairs’ 

and members’ biographies of NHMRC’s Council and Principal Committees. It also provides supplementary 

information to the report, including the public consultation activities held during the reporting period, 

and guidelines and health advice issued by NHMRC. 


v

Samuel, Year 3/4

PART1 

OVERVIEW 

Chief Executive Officer’s review 2 

About us 6 

NHMRC’s executive 7 

Research funding expenditure 9 

NHMRC funding snapshot 10 

Promoting excellence through the NHMRC Awards 11 

Annual Report of the National Health and Medical Research Council 2015–2016 1

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S REVIEW 

The children’s drawings throughout this year’s Annual Report reflect NHMRC’s 

focus on improving the health and well-being of present and future generations, 

through research and its implementation into policy and practice. 

PART 1 Overview 

As the Australian Government’s lead agency for health and medical research since 

1937, NHMRC plays a critical national role in supporting the research needed to 

address the health issues that face Australia. These issues range from the acute 

challenges of today – cancer, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, dementia 

and others – to the foreseeable threats of the future from our changing way of life 

and the spread of new infectious diseases. In turn, the research we need ranges 

widely from the development and trials of new therapies, devices and behavioural 

interventions, to understanding health and healthcare disparities across our 

society, and exploration of the biological basis of health and the origins of disease. 

NHMRC also has a national responsibility to promote the translation of research results into policy and 

practice, to produce evidence-based advice in clinical, public and environmental health, and to provide the 

framework for research integrity and the ethical conduct of research in humans and animals. 

In all of these activities, NHMRC draws on the advice of independent experts and consumer representatives 

from around the country and offshore to ensure that public funds are directed to the most significant and 

highest quality research and that the guidance we provide is based on sound evidence and ethical principles. 

The 2015-2016 Annual Report summarises NHMRC’s work across all of these domains under the broad 

themes of our Corporate Plan: investment, translation and integrity. 

HEALTH AND MEDICAL RESEARCH INVESTMENT 

NHMRC is responsible for the allocation of more than $800 million from the Medical Research Endowment 

Account (MREA). In 2015–16, these funds were distributed to researchers in universities, medical research 

institutes and hospitals through a range of funding schemes designed to support focussed projects, 

large collaborative research programs and networks, partnerships with the health industry and policy makers, 

development of ideas with commercial potential, and international collaborative research, amongst others. 

A proportion of the MREA was also distributed to support individual high-performing researchers at all career 

stages from postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows to senior clinical, public health and biomedical 

researchers – all of whom are leaders in their field and provide the training ground for the next generation of 

researchers. In this way, NHMRC seeks to ensure not only that the most important research is supported 

but also that Australia has the highly skilled capacity it needs to address its health challenges. 

In 2015–16, NHMRC has maintained its commitment to expend at least 5% of its research funds on 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health research. This target was exceeded again with expenditure on this 

critical priority reaching 6.5%. Much remains to be done, however, and an important focus in this triennium 

is the building of research capacity among people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent. 

2 


Structural review of NHMRC’s grant program 

NHMRC seeks to improve individual and population health by supporting excellence across the spectrum of 

biomedical, clinical, public health and health services research and by providing opportunities for a diversity 

of researchers at all career stages. In recent years, rising application numbers to NHMRC schemes and 

rising costs of research have led to falling funding rates. The time spent by applicants and peer reviewers 

in preparing and evaluating the large number of proposals, the great majority of which cannot be funded, 

is a significant cost to Australia’s health and medical research effort. Concerns have also been raised that 

low funding rates are discouraging early and mid-career researchers from a research career and inhibiting 

exploration of new areas of research. 

Recognising these issues, in 2015–16, we commenced a major review of the structure of NHMRC’s grant 

program to determine whether we can streamline the current suite of funding schemes, while continuing 

to support the best Australian research and researchers. An Expert Advisory Group, chaired by Professor 

Steve Wesselingh, was established to assist in the review. The consultation paper released in July 2016 

was followed by open consultation meetings around the country and a call for submissions. Feedback from 

this process will inform the consideration of alternative structures by the Expert Advisory Group, 

Research Committee and Council in late 2016, followed by detailed planning for the implementation of 

any changes. 


Medical Research Future Fund 

The Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF), established by the Australian Government in 2015–16, is a 

significant and welcome new investment which will ultimately double the Commonwealth funds available 

for health and medical research. Strategic alignment between the priorities for expenditure from the MRFF 

and the Medical Research Endowment Account administered by NHMRC is essential if Australia is to 

obtain the best possible health outcomes from these two funds. My membership of the Australian Medical 

Research Advisory Board, formed to advise the Minister for Health on the strategy and priorities for MRFF 

expenditure, provides one pathway to ensure this alignment. At NHMRC, we will continue to work closely 

with the Minister, the Department of Health and others as we shape NHMRC’s own strategy and priorities in 

this changing funding environment. 

Priority-driven research 

NHMRC supports both investigator-initiated and priority-driven health and medical research. 

Targeted Calls for Research (TCRs) are one of the mechanisms through which NHMRC directs funding 

to research on specific health issues that are not being addressed through other schemes. In 2015–16, 

NHMRC developed a new framework for identifying and prioritising TCR topics, drawing on advice from the 

Australian Health Ministers’ Advisory Council, NHMRC Council and our Principal Committees, among others. 

An important part of this new framework is an online pathway for community and professional groups to 

make the case for targeted health research funding in their areas of interest. An external committee has 

been appointed to assist in evaluating and recommending topics for support as a TCR. 

Throughout the year NHMRC funded three TCRs including Preparing Australia for the Genomics Revolution, 

Wind Farms and Human Health and Preventing Obesity in 18–24 Year Olds. 


3

Infectious diseases 

The 2013–16 Ebola virus epidemic in West Africa, the dramatic spread of Zika virus in the Americas in 

2015–16 and the recent resurgence of Yellow Fever in Africa have all drawn attention to the continuing 

threat of infectious disease throughout the developed and developing world. Several NHMRC initiatives are 

expected to strengthen Australia’s research response to this threat. 

In late 2015, we called for applications for a Centre of Research Excellence in Infectious Disease Emergency 

Response Research. The purpose of this call is to establish a national collaborative network that will 

coordinate and facilitate rapid research and provide the evidence base for health system responses to urgent 

infectious disease threats. The outcomes of the funding round were announced in July 2016. 


In 2015, NHMRC also convened a workshop of key stakeholders to discuss implementation plans for 

NHMRC’s component of the 2015 Federal Budget measure Developing Northern Australia – positioning the 

north as a leader in tropical health. The outcomes of the workshop assisted in developing guidelines for 

the Northern Australia Tropical Disease Collaborative Research Program which opened for applications in 

February 2016. The Program will support a geographically diverse network of high quality teams to undertake 

research into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of tropical disease and promote translation of this 

research into health outcomes in Australia and the region. This investment is part of a broader Government 

strategy to build Australia’s primary research capacity and support the development of Northern Australia as 

outlined in the White Paper on Developing Northern Australia. 

NHMRC is also a member of the Global Research Collaboration for Infectious Disease Preparedness 

(GloPID-R). This growing network brings together funding agencies on a global scale to enable a coordinated 

research response within 48 hours of a public health emergency due to a new or re-emerging infectious 

disease. NHMRC’s membership of GloPID-R provides Australia with additional opportunities for international 

collaboration and information sharing in preparing for, and responding to, an infectious disease outbreak with 

pandemic potential. 

RESEARCH TRANSLATION 

The effective translation of research into better clinical practice, public health policy and health systems is 

essential if the community is to benefit from NHMRC investment in health and medical research. This strategic 

priority in the NHMRC Corporate Plan 2015-2016 is reflected in a number of funding schemes (such as 

Partnership Projects and Development Grants) and other initiatives (such as the Advanced Health Research and 

Translation Centres) that aim to accelerate research translation and embed research in clinical care. 

The theme of the 4th Annual NHMRC Symposium on Research Translation, held in October 2015, was 

Policy and Research: Working together to improve the health of Australians. The symposium was held in 

collaboration with the Centre for Informing Policy in Health with Evidence from Research (CIPHER). With the 

goal of creating more effective working relationships between health and medical researchers and policy 

makers, the symposium enabled discussion of lessons learned and successful strategies, for example 

through early engagement and involvement of policy makers during the development of research projects. 

Research evidence 

Under NHMRC’s remit to provide guidance to practitioners and policy makers and to help Australians 

make informed decisions about their health, NHMRC produces and endorses guidelines, statements and 

information papers on significant health issues based on the best available, high-quality evidence generated 

in Australia and around the world. 

4 


During the year the NHMRC Council endorsed five guidelines: Patient Blood Management Guidelines 

Module 6: Neonatal and paediatrics; Clinical practice guidelines and principles of care for people with 

dementia; Clinical practice guidelines: PSA Testing and Early Management of Test-Detected Prostate Cancer; 

National Evidence Based Guideline on Secondary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease in Type 2 Diabetes; 

and The Australian Immunisation Handbook, 10th edition. 

RESEARCH INTEGRITY 

NHMRC plays a leadership role in ensuring the high ethical standards and integrity of Australian health and 

medical research through the provision of codes of practice and other guidance. 

In partnership with the Australian Research Council and Universities Australia, NHMRC is leading the review 

of the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research, 2007. This critically important code is 

undergoing a substantial revision to strengthen guidance to researchers on research integrity and to support 

institutions in managing allegations of research misconduct. 

During the year, NHMRC’s Australian Health Ethics Committee developed Ethical guidelines for organ 

transplantation from deceased donors in partnership with the Organ and Tissue Authority (OTA) and the 

Transplantation Society of Australia and New Zealand (TSANZ). Significant progress was made in the rolling 

review of the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research, review of the Ethical Guidelines 

on the Use of Assisted Reproductive Technology in Clinical Practice and Research, and updating of the Policy 

on the Care and Use of Non-Human Primates for Scientific Purposes. 


Throughout 2015-16, as always, NHMRC has relied on the advice of its Council and Principal Committees. 

We are deeply appreciative of the breadth, depth and wisdom of the counsel we receive from the Chair 

of Council Professor Bruce Robinson AM, the Chairs of the Principal Committees Professor Sharon Lewin, 

Professor Kathryn North AM, Professor Ian Olver AM and Professor Graeme Samuel AC, the Chair of 

the Embryo Research Licensing Committee Professor Constantine Michael AO, the chair of the Principal 

Committee Indigenous Caucus Professor Sandra Eades, and all the members of their committees. 

We thank the very large number of people who serve on expert working committees, grant review panels 

and the Community and Consumer Advisory Group and contribute to peer review and other activities in 

which we require expert advice. Finally, NHMRC thanks the community of researchers. We are proud of 

the extraordinary contribution they are making through their research to the health and well-being of all 

members of our society – young and old, now and in the future. 



September 2016 


5

ABOUT US 

OVERVIEW 

NHMRC’s mission: 

The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) has been Australia’s government body for 

supporting health and medical research since 1937. 

The principal functions of the organisation are to foster improved health and medical knowledge through: 


• funding research and translating research findings into evidence-based clinical practice 

• administering legislation governing research 

• issuing guidelines and advice for ethics in health 

• promoting public health. 

On behalf of the Australian Government, NHMRC is the leading national investor in health and medical 

research, advancing health and medical knowledge to improve the health of all Australians. 

The organisation develops evidence-based health advice for the Australian community, health professionals 

and governments, and provides advice on ethical practice in health care and the conduct of health and 

medical research. 

Key stakeholders include governments, researchers, research institutions, health consumers, 

health professionals and the Australian community. 

NHMRC is a statutory authority within the Commonwealth health portfolio. Our activities within the 

2015–16 reporting period were subject to the Public Service Act 1999, the Public Governance, Performance 

and Accountability Act 2013 (PGPA Act), and the National Health and Medical Research Council Act 1992 

(NHMRC Act). 

The NHMRC Act requires NHMRC to: 

• raise the standard of individual and public health throughout Australia 

• foster the development of consistent health standards between the various states and territories 

• foster medical research and training and public health research and training throughout Australia 

• foster consideration of ethical issues relating to health. 

NHMRC also has statutory obligations under the Prohibition of Human Cloning for Reproduction Act 2002 

and the Research Involving Human Embryos Act 2002. 

As at 30 June 2016, the CEO was accountable to the Hon Sussan Ley MP, Minister for Health and 

Aged Care. 

6 


NHMRC’s strategy for health and medical research 

NHMRC’s Corporate Plan 2015-2016 outlines NHMRC’s strategy for health and medical research 

for the period 2015–19, and is driven by the following themes: 

• investment – invest in high quality health and medical research and build research capability, 

supporting the best research and researchers 

• translation – support the translation of health and medical research into clinical practice, policy and 

health systems and the effective commercialisation of research discoveries 

• integrity – maintain a strong integrity framework for research and guideline development, 

underpinning rigorous research and relevant and accurate guidelines and promoting community trust. 

NHMRC’S EXECUTIVE 

NHMRC executive is responsible for the high-level management of the agency. The executive consists of the 

Chief Executive Officer, the General Manager and four Executive Directors. 




General Manager 

Mr Tony Kingdon 

Leadership team 

Mr Tony Krizan FCPA: Executive Director, Corporate Operations and Information 

Ms Samantha Robertson: Executive Director, Evidence, Advice and Governance 

Mr Alan Singh: Executive Director, Research Policy and Translation 

Dr Tony Willis: Executive Director, Research Programs 

Biographies of NHMRC executive staff can be found in Appendix 1 

The organisational structure as at 30 June 2016 is shown in Figure 1. 


7

Figure 1 NHMRC organisational structure as at 30 June 2016 

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER 

PROFESSOR ANNE KELSO AO 

GENERAL MANAGER 

TONY KINGDON 

LEGAL 


Legal Officers 

Research Programs Evidence, Advice & Governance Research Policy & Translation Corporate Operations & Information 

DR TONY WILLIS 

Executive Director 

SAMANTHA ROBERTSON 


ALAN SINGH 


TONY KRIZAN FCPA 

Executive Director/CFO 

BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT 

AND PARTNERSHIPS 

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH & CAMS 

RESEARCH TRANSLATION & 

MANAGER, MELBOURNE OFFICE 

HUMAN RESOURCES 

RESEARCH GRANTS 

STRATEGIC PROJECTS & SUPPORT 

GUIDELINES 

FINANCE & MREA 

PEOPLE SUPPORT 

ETHICS AND GOVERNANCE 

PARLIAMENTARY & EXTERNAL 

COMMUNICATIONS 

BUSINESS SERVICES 

RESEARCH ADMINISTRATION 

PUBLIC HEALTH 

RESEARCH POLICY 

ICT SERVICES 

PRIORITY DRIVEN RESEARCH 

CLINICAL TRIALS 

ABORIGINAL AND TORRES 

STRAIT ISLANDER ADVISER 

ICT DEVELOPMENT & NPP STREAMLINING 

SENIOR PRINCIPAL 

RESEARCH SCIENTIST 

SENIOR PRINCIPAL 

RESEARCH SCIENTIST 

DATA ANALYTICS AND REPORTING 

SENIOR RESEARCH SCIENTIST 


Dr TONY WILLIS 



8 


RESEARCH FUNDING EXPENDITURE 

Funding received for health and medical research from the Australian Government and other sources through 

the Medical Research Endowment Account (MREA) amounted to $845.5 million 1 in 2015–16, while grant 

payments for health and medical research totalled $825.5 million in the same year. 

New grants awarded through the MREA during 2015–16 amounted to $865.7 million to be spent over a 

period of up to six calendar years. This is an increase of $39 million, up from $826.7 million in 2014–15. 

The increase is due to new grants awarded under the Boosting Dementia Research budget measure, 

an increase to the allocation for new Program Grants, an additional round of Partnership Projects, and a new 

Targeted Call for Research to Prepare Australia for the Genomics Revolution. 

The MREA balance at the end of 2015–16 was $151.4 million. 

Figure 2 

Medical Research Endowment Account: new grant commitments, revenue, 

grant payments and the MREA balance 


1,000 

900 

800 

700 

$ MILLION 

600 

500 

400 

300 

200 

100 

0 

2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 

FINANCIAL YEAR 

New Grant Commitments 

Revenue (Appropriation & Other Receipts) 

Grant Payments 

MREA Balance 

In 2015–16, NHMRC also administered grant programs for activities related to dementia research 

($8.8 million, including $2.8 million for Boosting Dementia Research and $6.0 million for dementia 

related collaborative and partnership research centres), anti-venom research ($0.5 million) and provision 

of research evidence for clinical practice and policy through the Cochrane Collaboration ($2 million). 

1 Funding in 2015–16 includes Australian Government appropriations credited to the Medical Research Endowment 

Account ($836 million), external funding from other organisations ($6.2 million), and unspent grant funds that have been 

recovered ($3.2 million). 


9

NHMRC FUNDING SNAPSHOT 

Table 1 NHMRC funding summary 2015‐16 


Main 

Funding 

Group 

Create New 

Knowledge 

Accelerate 

Research 

Translation 

Funding 

Initiative 

Number 

of New 

Grants 

Total 

Commitments 

($) 

Project Grants 516 419,674,973 

Program Grants 9 108,742,325 

Create New Knowledge Total 525 528,417,298 

Centres of Research Excellence 16 41,823,135 

Development Grants 24 14,142,312 

Targeted Research - Preparing Australia for the Genomics 

Revolution 1 25,000,000 

Build 

Australia’s 

Future 

Capability 

Work with 

Partners 

Targeted Research - Wind Farms and Human Health 2 3,301,586 

Targeted Research - Preventing Obesity in 18-24 Year Olds 5 3,494,036 

Accelerate Research Translation Total 48 87,761,069 

Scholarships 69 6,634,303 

Early Career Fellowships 111 35,823,120 

Career Development Fellowships 55 23,965,192 

Research Fellowships 70 [1] 56,506,680 

Practitioner Fellowships 15 7,299,065 

Translating Research into Practice Fellowships 13 2,278,939 

Build Australia’s Future Capbility Total 364 132,507,299 

Aust/EU Collaborative Research Grants 3 1,495,919 

NHMRC - NSFC Joint Call for research on Type 2 Diabetes 7 4,072,104 

National Institute for Dementia Research - JPco-fuND 2 2,638,484 

Partnership Projects 37 28,901,815 

Targeted Research - NHMRC-ARC Dementia Research 

Development Fellowship 76 43,669,587 

Infrastructure 

Support 

Work with Partners Total 125 80,777,908 

Equipment Grants 46 5,700,000 

Independent MRI Infrastructure Grants 25 30,525,924 

Infrastructure Support Total 71 36,225,924 

Total 1102 865,689,498 

[1] - In addition to the 70 new grants 31 6th year extensions were awarded to unsuccessful applicants. 

Information on all NHMRC grants awarded during 2015–16 is available at NHMRC’s website. 

10 


PROMOTING EXCELLENCE THROUGH THE 

NHMRC AWARDS 

NHMRC promotes excellence across its areas of influence and research funding by celebrating successes 

with NHMRC awards. These annual awards recognise individuals and teams that have made outstanding 

contributions and advancements in health through research in 2015–16. 

COMMONWEALTH HEALTH MINISTER’S AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN 

HEALTH AND MEDICAL RESEARCH 

Dr Joseph Powell from the University of Queensland was the recipient of the annual Commonwealth Health 

Minister’s Award for Excellence in Health and Medical Research for 2016. This prestigious award recognises 

outstanding individual achievement by a mid-career Australian researcher. 

Dr Powell’s research uses large-scale genomic data to investigate how DNA sequence variants contribute to 

human disease. His research is in developing and exploiting new computational and statistical methods to 

explore how changes in non-coding DNA cause changes in gene expression that affect disease susceptibility. 

Work at this frontier will ultimately benefit the broader community through new approaches to the control of 

specific diseases. 


As well as the award, Dr Powell received a $50,000 grant that will help his team at the Institute of Molecular 

Bioscience at the University of Queensland to further their research. 

The award is given to the top-ranked NHMRC Career Development Fellowship recipient. 

Career Development Fellowships are highly competitive, four-year fellowships that support the most 

outstanding early to mid-career health and medical researchers. 

Dr Joseph Powell from the Institute of Molecular Bioscience 

at the University of Queensland was the recipient of the 

annual Commonwealth Health Minister’s Award for Excellence in 

Health and Medical Research for 2016. 


11

RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2015 

The outstanding achievements of 17 of Australia’s most talented health and medical researchers were 

celebrated at NHMRC’s annual Research Excellence Awards. The winners were assessed by their peers 

as meeting the highest national and international standards for their research. They represent the top 

17 applicants from more than 6,000 funding applications NHMRC received in 2015. The awards are 

presented to the top-ranked applicants across NHMRC’s funding schemes. 


Photo: Irene Dowdy 

Rear (L - R): Associate Professor Alex Hewitt, Professor Kirill Alexandrov, Associate Professor Anne 

Tiedemann, Dr Kim Delbaere, Professor Peter Currie, Dr Robert Commons, Associate Professor Bruce 

Campbell, Professor Stephen Nicholls, 

Front (L - R): Professor Robyn Guymer, Dr Joseph Powell, Professor Billie Giles-Corti, Professor Jane 

Visvader, Professor Anne Kelso AO, Professor Bruce Robinson, Professor Stephen Davis, Associate Professor 

Gail Garvey, Professor Justin Cooper-White 

Absent: Associate Professor Felice Jacka, Associate Professor Jean Yang 

12 


Award Recipient Institution Research project 

TOP RANKED APPLICANTS 

Rising Star Award 

The award is given to the top-ranked 

application by an Indigenous researcher in the 

Early Career Fellowship scheme. 

Associate 

Professor Gail 

Garvey 

Menzies School of 

Health Research 

Improving health 

outcomes for 

Aboriginal and 

Torres Strait Islander 

Australians with 

cancer 

Gustav Nossal Award 

The award is named in honour of Sir Gustav 

Nossal and his pioneering work in the field 

of immunology. It is awarded to the highest 

ranked applicant for an NHMRC Postgraduate 

Scholarship in the field of medical and 

dental research. 

Marshall and Warren Award 

The award is named after Australian Nobel 

Laureates Professors Barry Marshall and Robin 

Warren, who were awarded the 2005 Nobel 

Prize in Physiology or Medicine. The award is 

made to the applicant with the most highly 

innovative and potentially transformative 

Project Grant application. 

Dr Robert 

Commons 

Professor 

Justin Cooper- 

White 

Menzies School of 

Health Research 

The University of 

Queensland 

Primaquine radical 

cure of Plasmodium 

vivax malaria: a 

risk‐benefit analysis 

Targeted direct 

reprogramming 

of adult cardiac 

fibroblasts 

to functional 

cardiomyocytes 


Project Grant 

Project Grants support the creation of 

new knowledge by funding the best 

investigator‐initiated research project in any 

area relevant to human health. The award 

is given to the highest ranked applicant in 

NHMRC’s Project Grant scheme. 

Professor 

Peter Currie 

Monash University 

Mechanisms of 

muscle stem cell 

action in injury 

and disease 

Program Grant 

Program Grants support teams of high 

calibre researchers to pursue broad based, 

multi-disciplinary and collaborative research 

activities. The award is made to the highest 

ranked applicant in NHMRC’s Program 

Grant scheme. 

Professor 

Stephen Davis 


Melbourne 

Saving brain and 

changing practice 

in stroke 

Development Grant 

Development Grants support the commercial 

development of a product, procedure or 

service that would result in improved health 

care, disease prevention or provide health 

cost savings. The award is given to the highest 

ranked applicant in NHMRC’s Development 

Grant scheme. 

Professor Kirill 

Alexandrov 


Queensland 

Next generation 

personal 

diagnostic devices 


13


ELIZABETH BLACKBURN FELLOWSHIPS 

These fellowships are named after Australian-American Nobel Laureate Elizabeth Blackburn, who was 

awarded the 2009 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. The fellowships promote and foster the career 

development of female researchers. The award is made to the highest ranked female applicant in each of the 

biomedical, clinical and public health pillars of the Research Fellowship scheme. 

Biomedical 

Professor 

Jane Visvader 

Walter and Eliza 

Hall Institute of 

Medical Research 

Deciphering 

breast cancer 

heterogeneity to 

improve breast 

cancer outcomes 


Clinical 

Public Health 

Professor 

Robyn 

Guymer 

Professor 

Billie Giles- 

Corti 

Centre for Eye 

Research Australia 


Melbourne 

Age-related macular 

degeneration: 

A cause and a cure 

Building urban 

planning and 

health evidence to 

inform policy and 

practice that creates 

healthy, liveable 

and equitable 

communities 

designed to prevent 

non-communicable 

diseases 

FELLOWSHIP AWARDS 

Practitioner Fellowship 

Practitioner Fellowships support research 

that results in the translation of evidence 

into improved clinical practice and health 

policy, delivering improvements in health and 

healthcare to Australians. The award is given 

to the highest ranked applicant in NHMRC’s 

Practitioner Fellowship scheme. 

Associate 

Professor Alex 

Hewitt 

University of 

Tasmania 

Molecular profiling 

to identify 

therapeutic targets 

for blinding diseases 

Research Fellowship 

Research Fellowships support leading 

health and medical researchers in full-time 

research. The award is given to the highest 

ranked applicant in NHMRC’s Research 

Fellowship scheme. 

Professor 

Stephen 

Nicholls 

South Australian 

Health and Medical 

Research Institute 

Developing 

innovative pathways 

for the prevention 

of lifelong 

cardiovascular risk 

14 



CAREER DEVELOPMENT FELLOWSHIPS 

Career Development Fellowships support Australia’s early to mid-career health and medical researchers. 

It helps investigators establish themselves as independent, self-directed researchers. The award is given to 

the highest ranked applicant in each of the biomedical, clinical, industry and population health pillars of the 

Career Development Fellowship scheme. 

Biomedical 

Career Development 

Fellowship – Level 1 

Dr Joseph 

Powell 


Queensland 

Control of genome 

regulation 

and its role in 

human disease 

Biomedical 



Clinical 



Associate 

Professor 

Jean Yang 

Associate 

Professor 

Bruce 

Campbell 


Sydney 


Melbourne 

Statistical 

bioinformatics for 

network based 

prognostic and 

precision therapy in 

complex disease 

Optimizing stroke 

therapy - advanced 

brain imaging 

and reperfusion 

therapies 


Industry 



Dr Kim 

Delbaere 

Neuroscience 

Research Australia 

Using technology 

towards effective 

self-management 

of fall risk in 

older adults 

Population Health 



Associate 

Professor 

Anne 

Tiedemann 

University of 

Sydney 

Prevention of 

falls to promote 

healthy ageing: 

new approaches 

and enhanced 

implementation 

Population Health 



Associate 

Professor 

Felice Jacka 

Deakin University 

Diet and mental 

health: translating 

new knowledge 

into innovative 

prevention and 

treatment strategies 


15

16 

Improving children’s health through physical activity 

Associate Professor Chris Lonsdale – Australian Catholic University 

Physical inactivity is a leading cause of disease in Australia. 

Associate Professor Lonsdale and his team have set out 

to tackle this problem through a research project aiming 

to increase children’s activity and improve their health. 

The project will explore the links between physical activity 

and childhood development, and the results could be used 

to develop a framework for promoting physical activity for 

children across Australia. 

Associate Professor Chris Lonsdale is leading a collaborative 

team of researchers to deliver a research program that aims to 

promote children’s physical activity and improve their health. 

Associate Professor Lonsdale said the partnership research 

project aims to examine how a program promoting physical 

activity can affect children’s development outcomes. 

“This collaborative study, known as iPLAY, will examine 

whether a teacher adopting a program aimed at promoting 

physical activity can affect children’s fitness, wellbeing and 

academic performance. 

“This research will expand upon an existing research 

to will deliver a professional development intervention 

targeting primary school teachers in New South Wales,” 

Professor Lonsdale explained. 

Mr Ross Morrison, Leader of the School Sport Unit at New 

South Wales Department of Education and Communities, 

which is a project partner, said the study strives to enhance 

teacher practice and confidence when leading school sport 

and physical activity programs. 

This $1.3 million partnership grant was announced 

by Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Health 

Minister Sussan Ley on 3 March 2016 as part of 96 

NHMRC grants for new research worth 

$129.4 million. 

Minister Ley said grants would support Australia’s 

preeminent researchers and focused on a range of 

topics that were critical to Australian health. 

“This promise supports Australia’s commitment 

to fostering the best and brightest in health and 

medical research,” she said. 

“This kind of research plays an important role in 

making Australians healthier and improving their 

quality of living,” Ms Ley said. 

NHMRC CEO Professor Anne Kelso noted the 

importance of the grants. 

“We have a highly productive and internationally 

competitive research community, and the recipients 

of these grants will pursue exciting and innovative 

research for the benefit of human health. 

“The mix of both outstanding new talent and 

experienced and internationally recognised 

researchers shows the breadth and depth of medical 

research in Australia,” Professor Kelso concluded. 

“This is a key issue for primary teachers who typically have 

little specialist training in this area,” 

Mr Morrison remarked. 

iPLAY will be delivered using online teacher professional 

learning system in a pilot study to 20 schools in Western 

Sydney. The program will then be rolled out to promote 

children’s physical activity in up to 200 schools across New 

South Wales over the next five years. 

Mr Morrison said the valuable outcomes of the research will 

be used to inform strategic direction and to promote 

high-quality teaching practice in schools and other 

learning environments. 

16 


CASE STUDY 

“This research is 

designed to improve 

students’ fundamental 

movement skills, and 

increase opportunities 

to engage in moderateto-vigorous 

physical 

activity.” 

“This study will provide the Department with data 

regarding the effectiveness of targeted professional 

learning on students’ fitness, as a result of increases in 

physical activity,” Mr Morrison said. 

“The team is committed to undertaking research that 

will influence the health and wellbeing of children. 

We are striving to provide the highest quality data that 

can inform policy and practice,” Associate Professor 

Lonsdale concluded. 

Associate Professor Lonsdale is working in collaboration 

with researchers from the University of Newcastle, 

Deakin University and the University of British Columbia, 

Canada. The project will be delivered in partnership with 

the New South Wales Department of Education and 

Communities, NSW Department of Sport and Recreation. 


17


10 OF THE BEST NHMRC 

RESEARCH 

PROJECTS 

Ten of the Best Research Projects 2015 

describes ten Australian health and medical 

research projects chosen from among the 

thousands of medical research projects 

funded by the NHMRC. It is an opportunity 

to showcase some of that research and 

to honour the outstanding researchers 

who conceived, planned and delivered it. 

These are projects completed in the previous 

year that have achieved results of particular 

significance for the improvement of human 

health – whether through advancement of 

knowledge or the prevention, detection or 

treatment of disease. 

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR 

JASON ARMFIELD 

UNIVERSITY OF ADELAIDE 

EARLY CAREER FELLOWSHIP 

$336,561 

2009–13 

Photo: Russell Millard Photography 

DISCOVERING THE ORIGINS OF DENTAL ANXIETY 

Associate Professor Jason Armfield set out to explain 

the origins of dental fear and to understand why fear 

of the dentist is a serious psychological problem for 

many Australians. He developed a ‘dental anxiety scale’ 

that will help to identify and treat the condition across 

the world, leading to more people visiting the dentist and 

better population level oral health. 


HELEN COOPER 

UNIVERSITY OF QUEENSLAND 

PROJECT GRANT 

$322,524 

2011–13 

Photo: Tony Phillips 

DELIVERING AUSTRALIA FROM NEURODEGENERATION 

Associate Professor Helen Cooper’s research 

aims to understand the molecular mechanisms 

controlling the birth of new neurons in the adult 

brain. In the long-term, it is hoped that these insights 

will help to design therapeutic approaches to treat 

neurodegenative diseases. 

18 



LEAH COSGROVE 

CSIRO (FOOD AND NUTRITIONAL 

SCIENCES) 

DEVELOPMENT GRANT 

$542,260 

2011–13 

Photo: Russell Millard Photography 

SANGUINE ADVANCES IN DETECTING COLORECTAL CANCER 

Associate Professor Leah Cosgrove and her team have 

developed a simple blood test to diagnose colorectal 

cancer. A reliable, non-invasive blood test could augment 

the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, either 

as an adjunct primary screen for those unable to do the 

stool test, or in triaging positive subjects to colonoscopy. 

This could help drive a significant reduction in colorectal 

cancer deaths in Australia. 


PROFESSOR DAVID CRAIK 

UNIVERSITY OF QUEENSLAND 

PROJECT GRANT 

$511,299 

2011–13 

Photo: Tony Phillips 

THE SCORPION KING: LIGHTING THE WAY TO DEFEATING 

BRAIN CANCER 

Professor David Craik and his team set out to make synthetic 

derivatives of a naturally occurring peptide, chlorotoxin, from 

the venom of a scorpion to use for brain tumour imaging. 

The work was based on a discovery by collaborator, Dr Jim 

Olson, that through attaching a dye to chlorotoxin it could 

be used to ‘light up’ tumours. This allows surgeons to pick 

up small amounts of cancerous tissue during surgery, 

reducing the risk of the tumour reoccurring. 


GORDON DOIG 

UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY 

PROJECT GRANT 

$845,052 

2010–13 

Photo: Grant Turner - MediaKoo 

PROTEIN: THE KEY TO IMPROVED KIDNEY FUNCTIONALITY 

Associate Professor Gordon Doig and his team showed 

that critically ill patients who received better nutrition were 

less likely to develop kidney injury. These findings represent 

an important first step towards global practice change 

and offers the potential to reduce the need for surgery, 

dialysis and transplantation. 


19

PROFESSOR PETER GIBSON 

MONASH UNIVERSITY 

PROJECT GRANT 

$661,496 

2011–13 


Photo: James Braund 

GLUTEN FOR PUNISHMENT: 

CHALLENGING NON-COELIAC GLUTEN SENSITIVITY 

Professor Peter Gibson and his team set out to 

determine whether gluten causes problems in people 

who do not suffer from coeliac disease. The team 

found that short-chain carbohydrates called FODMAPs 

(Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, 

Monosaccharides and Polyols), not gluten, might be 

triggering symptoms such as bloating and stomach pain. 

The results have put some scientifically valid findings in 

this controversial area. 

PROFESSOR ROBERT M. GRAHAM 

VICTOR CHANG CARDIAC 

INSTITUTE 

PROJECT GRANT 

$536,732 

2011–13 


MENDING A BROKEN HEART: 

REPAIRING INJURED HEART CELLS 

Professor Robert Graham and his team embarked on 

their research to understand how the heart develops 

after birth and why heart muscle cells lose their ability 

to divide and make new cells. Their research markedly 

shifted the goal posts and showed that heart muscle 

cells actually retain an ability to divide until adolescence. 

This discovery holds great promise for new approaches 

to managing a range of heart conditions. 

20 


PROFESSOR LOUISA JORM 

WESTERN SYDNEY 

UNIVERSITY 

AND UNIVERSITY OF 

NEW SOUTH WALES 

PROJECT GRANT 

$484,697 

2009–14 


INDIGENOUS HEALTH: UNDERSTANDING THE HEALTH GAP 

Across many health indicators, Indigenous Australians 

remain disadvantaged compared with non-Indigenous 

Australians. Professor Louisa Jorm linked and scrutinised 

the vast data held by modern healthcare systems to 

understand the factors influencing disadvantage for 

Indigenous Australians. This important research will 

translate into better disease prevention and patient care 

for Indigenous Australians, as well as more effective health 

care spending. 


JANE PILLOW 

UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN 

AUSTRALIA 

PROJECT GRANT 

$395,696 

2011–13 


Photo: Alana Blowfield 

BREATHING EASY: SUPPORTING LUNG DEVELOPMENT OF 

PREMATURE BABIES 

Associate Professor Jane Pillow and her team sought to 

understand the respiratory problems of premature babies 

to help the sickest and smallest babies develop their lungs. 

This research has contributed a great deal to improving 

both the quality of healthcare available to premature babies 

at birth as well as their long-term health prospects. 

PROFESSOR STEPHEN TONG 

MONASH UNIVERSITY 

PROJECT GRANT 

$228,770 

2011–13 

Photo: James Braund 

ECTOPIC PREGNANCY TREATMENT: A SAFER WAY 

Professor Stephen Tong and the team of investigators 

are revolutionising the treatment of ectopic pregnancy, 

meaning most women presenting with the condition could 

be treated medically, rather than surgically. Not only will 

this make treating ectopic pregnancies safer, easier and 

more effective, but it may save many lives across 

the developing world where surgery is unavailable or 

not possible. 


21

Halima, Year 3

PART 2 

PERFORMANCE REPORT 

Chief Executive Officer’s review 2 

About us 6 

NHMRC’s executive 7 

Research funding expenditure 9 

NHMRC funding snapshot 10 

Promoting excellence through the NHMRC Awards 11 


23

NHMRC’s Corporate Plan 2015–2016 sets out the agency’s purposes, planned activities and performance for 

the period 2015–16 to 2018–19, and addresses capability, environment and risk oversight and management 

as required by the PGPA Act. 

NHMRC’s annual performance statements are prepared in accordance with the PGPA Act and are measured 

against the targets set out in the Corporate Plan. 

The scope and reach of NHMRC’s activities are broad, with the agency spanning a wide range of health 

topics in the various aspects of its work – from funding research to guideline development and advice. 

The overall purposes of NHMRC, supporting the agency’s mission of ‘working to build a healthy Australia’, 

can be summarised as follows. 

PART 2 Performance Report 

• Investment to fund high quality health and medical research and build research capability 

• Translation to support the translation of health and medical research into better health outcomes 

• Integrity to promote the highest ethical standards in health and medical research. 

Figure 3 NHMRC strategy for health and medical research 

WORKING TO BUILD A HEALTHY AUSTRALIA 

LEAD SUPPORT ENGAGE RESPOND 

Investment 

Create knowledge and build research capability 

by supporting the highest quality health and 

medical research and the best researchers 

Translation 

Support the translation of health and medical research 

into clinical practice, policy and health systems and the 

effective commercialisation of research discoveries 

Strategic priorities 

Key activities 

Integrity 

Maintain a strong integrity framework for research and guideline 

development, underpinning rigorous research and relevant and 

accurate guidelines and promoting community trust 

Healthier Australians 

Better clinical care 

Improved health care system 

Economic benefit through innovation and improved productivity 

24 


OUTCOMES AND PROGRAM STRUCTURE 

Through NHMRC Portfolio Budget Statement Program 1.1, the Australian Government invests in health and 

medical research that is undertaken within a well-established ethical framework, to address national health 

priorities and improve the health of all Australians. 

The Program objectives for NHMRC are to: 

• support high quality health and medical research 

• boost dementia research 

• facilitate simplified and consistent health and medical research 

• support the translation of health and medical research 

• promote the highest ethical standards in health and medical research. 

The agency Portfolio Budget Statement 2015–16 outlines the NHMRC budgeted expenses and resources as 

shown in the table below. 

Table 2 

Portfolio Budget Statement – NHMRC expenses and resources 

Expenses for Outcome 1 

Outcome 1: Improved health and medical knowledge, 

including through funding research, translating research 

findings into evidence-based clinical practice, administering 

legislation governing research, issuing guidelines and advice for 

ethics in health and the promotion of public health. 

Budget* 

2015–16 

$’000 

(a) 

Actual 

Expenses 

2015–16 

$’000 

(b) 

Variation 

2015–16 

$’000 

(a)-(b) 

Programme 1.1: Health and Medical Research 

Administered expenses 

Ordinary Annual Services (Appropriation Act No. 1) 840,583 840,583 - 

To the Medical Research Endowment Account (MREA) (859,026) (836,043) (22,983) 

Special accounts 

Medical Research Endowment Account (MREA) 845,780 815,215 30,565 

Departmental expenses 

Departmental appropriation 1 40,255 39,123 1,132 

Expenses not requiring appropriation in the Budget year 2 2,300 2,347 (47) 

Total for Programme 1.1 869,892 861,225 8,667 

Total expenses for Outcome 1 - - - 


2014-15 2015–16 

Average Staffing Level (number) 197 187 10 

* Portfolio Additional Estimates Statements 2015–16 

1 Departmental Appropriation combines Ordinary annual services (Appropriation Act Nos. 1, 3 and 5) and Retained Revenue 

Receipts under section 74 of the PGPA Act 2013. 

2 Expenses not requiring appropriation in the Budget year is made up of depreciation expense, amortisation expense, 

makegood expense and audit fees. 


25

RESULTS SUMMARY 

This snapshot outlines NHMRC’s performance against targets outlined in the Corporate Plan and the 

Portfolio Budget Statements for 2015–16. 

INVESTMENT 

Goal 1: Support high quality health and medical research 


Target 1 

Target 2 

Allocate 50 per cent of total Medical Research Endowment Account (MREA) funding annually to 

NHMRC’s Project Grant scheme 

Report annually on funding by broad research area, National Health Priority Areas and Australian 

Government priorities 

Achieved 

Achieved 

Target 3 Examine the role of philanthropic funding Work ongoing 

Target 4 Run at least one Targeted Call for Research annually Work ongoing 

Target 5 Periodic review of established funding schemes Achieved 

Target 6 Completed reviews are presented to Research Committee for consideration Achieved 

Outcome 1: NHMRC continued to support high quality health and medical research throughout 

2015–16. 

Goal 2: Support the health and medical research workforce and build researcher capacity 

Target 1 

Report annually on the proportion of total MREA funding committed to key people support schemes 

by research ‘pillar’ 

Achieved 

Target 2 Support the work of NHMRC’s Women in Health Science Committee Work ongoing 

Target 3 Report annually on the percentage of women as chief investigators Achieved 

Outcome 2: NHMRC continues to meet its commitment to support the health and medical 

research workforce. 

Goal 3: Boost dementia research 

Target 1 Establish a National Institute for Dementia Research Achieved 

Target 2 Support the Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research Achieved 

Target 3 Work with the Australian Research Council to build dementia research capacity Achieved 

Target 4 Support large scale research in priority areas for dementia research Achieved 

Outcome 3: The Boosting Dementia Initiative is delivering on its commitment to enhance research 

on dementia and to translate the results into policy and practice. 

Goal 4: Support collaborative, multidisciplinary approaches to solving health problems 

Target 1 Promote and review management of multidisciplinary funding proposals Work ongoing 

Target 2 Undertake a collaborative, multidisciplinary tropical health research program Work ongoing 

Target 3 Develop an international engagement strategy to guide decisions on new collaborations Achieved 

Target 4 Finalise collaborative research funding with key international organisations Achieved 

Outcome 4: NHMRC supports collaborative, multidisciplinary approaches to solving health 

problems through a number of different measures. 

26 


INVESTMENT 

Goal 5: Participate in developing national strategies for research infrastructure investment 

Target 1 

Target 2 

Develop policies for national research infrastructure investment that will reduce duplication and 

encourage collaboration 

Award eligible independent medical research institutes approximately 20 cents per dollar of the 

total yearly value of grants held 

Work ongoing 

Outcome 5: NHMRC continues to develop policies and invest in national research infrastructure. 

Goal 6: Support research that will provide better health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait 

Islander peoples 

Achieved 

Target 1 Commit at least five per cent of funding to Indigenous health research Achieved 

Target 2 Report on the percentage of grants that address Indigenous health challenges Achieved 

Target 3 Support NHMRC’s Principal Committee Indigenous Caucus Work ongoing 

Target 4 Conduct a one-day forum to identify evidence-practice gaps Achieved 

Outcome 6: NHMRC continued to achieve its commitment of supporting research that will 

provide better health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians. 

Goal 7: Promote access to and use of ‘big data’ to improve health 

Target 1 Collaborate with relevant Australian and international groups regarding the use of ‘big data’ Work ongoing 

Target 2 

Continue to encourage data-sharing practices to maximise the benefits derived from NHMRCfunded 

research 

Work ongoing 

Target 3 Refine guidance for researchers to consider data and metadata management in their research Work ongoing 

Target 4 Release NHMRC’s Principles for Accessing and Using Publicly Funded Data for Health Research Achieved 

Outcome 7: NHMRC has continued to work with national and international agencies to promote 

the use and sharing of data. 

Goal 8: Improve the grant application and peer review processes 

Target 1 Review peer review process to enhance the efficiency of the peer review system Work ongoing 

Target 2 Work towards an improved and consistent application process and streamlined reporting system Work ongoing 

Outcome 8: NHMRC continued to enhance its grant application and peer review processes in 

order to reduce the burden on the research sector. 



27

TRANSLATION 

Goal 1: Support translational research 

Target 1 Support translation-related research activities through a range of funding schemes Achieved 

Target 2 Implement a collaborative initiative in tropical health research and translation for Northern Australia Work ongoing 

Target 3 Establish the Health Translation Advisory Committee and work program informed by Council Achieved 

Target 4 Support priority-driven research Achieved 

Outcome 1: NHMRC has achieved its goal of supporting translational research, including research 

focused on the National Health Priority Areas, the Australian Government Science and 

Research Priority in Health and other major health issues. 


Goal 2: Support the translation of health and medical research 

Target 1 Fund Partnerships for Better Health projects and centres Work ongoing 

Target 2 Promote the role of Advanced Health Research and Translation Centres Work ongoing 

Target 3 Continue to address evidence-practice gaps Work ongoing 

Target 4 Work with the Commonwealth, states and territories to identify issues of mutual concern Work ongoing 

Target 5 

Work with Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) to develop research preparedness 

in response to infectious disease threats to health 

Work ongoing 

Target 6 Publish an updated Statement on Consumer and Community Participation in Health and Medical Research Work ongoing 

Target 7 Establish the Health Translation Advisory Committee Achieved 

Target 8 Host the Fourth Research Translation Symposium Achieved 

Target 9 Host a stakeholder workshop on the Advanced Health Research and Translation Centres initiative Achieved 

Target 10 Accept key research priorities identified and presented by NHMRC’s National Institute for Dementia 

Research 

Target 11 Commence a review of the Australian Guidelines to Reduce Health Risks from Drinking Alcohol 

Target 12 Finalise review on the health effects of water fluoridation 

Target 13 Update the Australian Guidelines for the Prevention and Control of Infection in Healthcare 

Target 14 Provide research evidence and advice to the Government as needed 

Target 15 Fifty per cent citation rate of journal articles resulting from NHMRC funded research 

Achieved 

Work ongoing 

Work ongoing 

Work ongoing 

Outcome 2: NHMRC has continued to support the translation of health and medical research into 

clinical practice, policy and health systems. 

Achieved 

Achieved 

28 


TRANSLATION 

Goal 3: Develop public and environmental health and clinical advice 

Target 1 Approve high quality clinical guidelines prepared by third parties Achieved 

Target 2 Develop guidelines that address clinical, public and environmental health topics Achieved 

Target 3 Report on the quality of Australian clinical practice guidelines Work ongoing 

Target 4 Progress a new guideline development standard and methodology Work ongoing 

Outcome 3: NHMRC continues to maintain its leadership role in the development and dissemination 

of public and environmental health and clinical advice. 

Goal 4: Remove barriers to commercialisation and innovation in health 

Target 1 Report on the number of grants awarded through the Development Grants scheme Achieved 

Target 2 Strengthen rules for competitive grant programs Achieved 

Target 3 Identify opportunities for education of researchers in skills related to commercialisation Work ongoing 

Target 4 Present a Marshall and Warren award for highly innovative Project Grants Achieved 

Target 5 Establish the Health Innovation Advisory Committee Achieved 

Target 6 Report on the proportion of the MREA budget committed to research translation Achieved 

Target 7 Report on the percentage of Project Grants with an innovation category score of five or more Achieved 

Outcome 4: NHMRC continues to revise policies and processes to make it easier for researchers to 

move flexibly between industry and academia. 

Goal 5: Expediting clinical trials reforms 

Target 1 Streamline ethical review and research governance processes for clinical trials Achieved 

Target 2 Improve processes for clinical trials Work ongoing 

Outcome 5: In 2015–16, NHMRC has continued to work towards simplified and streamlined ethics 

review, research governance approval and clinical trial oversight processes. 



29

INTEGRITY 

Goal 1: Retain high ethical standards in health and medical research 

Target 1 Promote adherence to agreed standards in ethics and the conduct of research Work ongoing 

Target 2 Work towards national adoption of the National Approach to Single Ethical Review Work ongoing 

Target 3 Aim for 100 per cent of institutions to maintain certification requirements Achieved 

Outcome 1: NHMRC continues to promote high ethical standards in health and medical research 

and health care and build trust in research. 

Goal 2: Strengthen process for managing research misconduct 

Target 1 Prevent research misconduct and investigate complaints Work ongoing 


Target 2 Lead revision of the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research, 2007 Work ongoing 

Target 3 Undertake public consultation on a draft of the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research Work ongoing 

Target 4 Revise the NHMRC Policy on Misconduct Related to NHMRC-funded Research Work ongoing 

Outcome 2: NHMRC has made substantial progress toward supporting high ethical standards in 

health and medical research through strengthening the process for managing research 

misconduct. 

Goal 3: Continue review of research ethics standards and guidelines 

Target 1 Ensure statements, codes and guidelines remain up-to-date and reflect best practice Work ongoing 

Target 2 Review Section 3 of the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human research Work ongoing 

Target 3 

Review Ethical Guidelines on the Use of Assisted Reproductive Technology in Clinical Practice and 

Research 

Work ongoing 

Target 4 Complete the Ethical Guidelines for Organ Transplantation from Deceased Donors Achieved 

Target 5 

Undertake public consultation on the development of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research 

Ethics Guidelines 

Work ongoing 

Outcome 3: Significant progress has been achieved with the review of research ethics standards 

and guidelines, many of which are associated with highly sensitive and complex issues. 

Goal 4: Administer the Research Involving Human Embryos Act 2002 and the Prohibition of Human 

Cloning for Reproduction Act 2002 

Target 1 Stakeholders demonstrate continued understanding of regulatory requirements Work ongoing 

Target 2 Implement new processes to decrease the burden of red tape on businesses Work ongoing 

Outcome 4: During 2015–16 the Embryo Research Licensing Committee has fulfilled its functions 

and, through NHMRC, continued to administer the legislation. 

30 


INVESTMENT 

Create knowledge and build research capability by supporting the highest quality health and medical 

research and the best researchers. 

Figure 4 

NHMRC strategy – investment 





Investment 

Translation 

Integrity 

Investment 

Translation 

Integrity 

































31

GOAL 1: SUPPORT HIGH QUALITY HEALTH AND MEDICAL RESEARCH 

Fund research into Australian health that: 

• is of the highest quality and conducted by the best researchers 

Activity 1.1 NHMRC 

Corporate Plan 

• includes research that addresses the National Health Priority Areas (NPHAs), 

the Australian Government Science and Research Priority in Health and other 

major health issues 

• covers the full breadth of health and medical research 


Support high quality health and medical research 

The Australian Government, through NHMRC, will continue to invest in Australia’s 

health and medical research sector. Through the Medical Research Endowment 

Account NHMRC will award grants through a number of funding schemes to 

support research in all areas of health. 

Portfolio Budget 

Statement— 

Program 1.1: 

Health and Medical 

Research 

Program Objectives 

Target 1: Allocate 50 per cent of total MREA funding annually to the NHMRC 

Project Grant scheme 



Statement 

Allocate 50 per cent of total Medical Research Endowment Account 

(MREA) funding annually to the NHMRC Project Grant scheme. 

Fifty per cent of total MREA funding to the NHMRC Project Grant 

scheme. 

Achieved 

A total expenditure of 51 per cent of the MREA ($421.7 million) was allocated to the NHMRC Project Grant 

scheme in 2015–16. 

Target 2: Report annually on funding by broad research area, National Health 

Priority Areas and Australian Government priorities 


Report annually on funding by broad research area, NHPAs and the 

Australian Government Science and Research Priority in Health, to ensure 

that funding is appropriately allocated to key areas. 

Achieved 

NHMRC funds investigator-initiated grants across the broad research areas, National Health Priority Areas 

(NHPAs) 2 and the Australian Government Science and Research Priorities. 3 In 2016, NHMRC developed a 

framework for funding across these strategic priorities. 

All funding outcomes, including a breakdown of broad research area, the NHPAs, and Australian Government 

priorities, are published on the NHMRC website and in its Research Funding Facts Book. 

2 Australian Government National Health Priority Areas: http://www.aihw.gov.au/national-health-priority-areas/ 

3 Australian Government Science and Research Priorities: http://science.gov.au/scienceGov/ 

ScienceAndResearchPriorities/Pages/default.aspx 

32 


Table 3 

Expenditure for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health 

FY 2011–12 FY 2012–13 FY 2013–14 FY 2014–15 FY 2015–16 

Aboriginal and 

Torres Strait 

Islander Health 

$47,883,276 $42,009,003 $46,689,238 $54,706,548 $53,417,684 

Table 4 

Expenditure by National Health Priority Area 

National Health 

Priority Area 

FY 2011–12 FY 2012–13 FY 2013–14 FY 2014–15 FY 2015–16 

Arthritis and 

Osteoporosis 

$28,049,367 $23,723,013 $23,819,936 $22,805,602 $19,625,599 

Asthma $20,073,267 $19,966,601 $23,653,360 $24,200,707 $17,614,089 

Cancer $191,051,498 $174,072,941 $195,767,726 $196,257,955 $176,697,206 

Cardiovascular 

Disease 

$122,333,082 $109,546,171 $125,366,988 $129,245,874 $107,622,089 

Dementia $30,819,070 $24,821,251 $33,002,347 $33,484,149 $41,322,637 


Diabetes $77,843,907 $65,966,347 $72,324,158 $72,317,311 $64,553,517 

Injury $50,429,923 $45,816,062 $55,438,402 $62,825,752 $53,746,194 

Mental Health $70,843,603 $66,285,741 $82,668,244 $91,398,940 $75,867,421 

Obesity $40,787,328 $37,766,681 $44,716,472 $40,999,883 $31,243,322 

Figure 5 

Expenditure by National Health Priority Area 

250,000,000 

200,000,000 

EXPENDITURE $ 

150,000,000 

100,000,000 

50,000,000 

0 

FY 2011-12 FY 2012-13 FY 2013-14 FY 2014-15 FY 2015-16 


Arthritis and Osteoporosis 

Asthma 

Cancer 

Cardiovascular Disease 

Dementia 

Diabetes 

Injury 

Mental Health 

Obesity 


33

Table 5 

Expenditure by Science and Research Priority 

Science and 

Research Priority 

1. Food 

1.2 Knowledge of the social, 

economic and other 

barriers to achieving 

access to healthy 

Australian foods. 

FY 2011–12 FY 2012–13 FY 2013–14 FY 2014–15 FY 2015–16 

$3,038,415 $2,414,673 $2,085,370 $2,215,938 $2,187,039 


9. Health 

9.1 Better models of health 

care and services that 

improve outcomes, 

reduce disparities for 

disadvantaged and 

vulnerable groups, 

increase efficiency and 

provide greater value for 

a given expenditure. 

9.2 Improved prediction, 

identification, 

tracking, prevention 

and management of 

emerging local and 

regional health threats. 

$37,525,785 $34,444,669 $45,432,611 $53,750,891 $53,396,289 

$80,270,232 $77,824,751 $83,307,523 $86,893,756 $86,240,758 

9.3 Better health outcomes 

for Indigenous people, 

with strategies for both 

urban and regional 

communities. 

9.4 Effective technologies 

for individuals to manage 

their own health care, for 

example, using mobile 

apps, remote monitoring 

and online access to 

therapies. 

$47,883,276 $42,009,003 $46,689,238 $54,706,548 $53,417,684 

$7,472,719 $9,911,976 $14,563,755 $16,719,176 $14,835,531 

34 


Figure 6 Expenditure by Science and Research Priority 

EXPENDITURE $ 

100,000,000 

90,000,000 

80,000,000 

70,000,000 

60,000,000 

50,000,000 

40,000,000 

30,000,000 

20,000,000 

10,000,000 

0 

FY 2011-12 FY 2012-13 FY 2013-14 FY 2014-15 FY 2015-16 


Priority 1.2 Priority 9.2 Priority 9.4 

Priority 9.1 Priority 9.3 

Table 6 Expenditure by Broad Research Area 

Broad Research Area 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 

Basic Science $346,297,600 $361,778,641 $332,188,810 $357,456,294 $372,389,561 


Clinical Medicine and 

Science $252,728,597 $263,176,723 $254,342,363 $281,076,574 $301,357,037 

Health Services 

Research $35,418,969 $37,173,789 $37,417,172 $48,069,789 $57,643,842 

Public Health $104,962,281 $112,263,863 $108,425,978 $118,870,307 $121,252,521 

Not Applicable $38,899,725 $52,286,911 $42,446,705 $38,790,039 $39,029,589 

Figure 7 

Expenditure by Broad Research Area 

400,000,000 

350,000,000 

300,000,000 

EXPENDITURE $ 

250,000,000 

200,000,000 

150,000,000 

100,000,000 

50,000,000 

0 

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 

CALENDAR YEAR 

Basic Science 

Clinical Medicine and Science 

Health Services Research 

Not Applicable 

Public Health 


35

Target 3: Examine the role of philanthropic funding 


Examine the role that philanthropic funding plays in supporting health 

and medical research and how NHMRC could promote leveraging of 

alternative funding sources. 

Work 

ongoing 

To date, NHMRC’s involvement with the philanthropic sector has focused on co-funding research projects 

and people support awards. NHMRC also provides advice to inform research funding decisions by 

non‐government organisations (NGOs). Information on the many ways in which NHMRC can work with 

partners is available on our website at www.nhmrc.gov.au/grants-funding/partnering-nhmrc. 


Additional options to promote leveraging of alternative funding sources are being investigated. NHMRC is 

seeking advice from the Principal Committees regarding opportunities for engagement with the 

philanthropic sector. 

Target 4: Call for applications addressing a defined research topic; run at least 

one Targeted Call for Research annually 


Portfolio 

Budget 

Statement 

Call for applications addressing a defined research topic to stimulate or 

greatly advance knowledge in a particular area of health and medical 

science for the benefit of the health of Australians. To support this 

initiative, NHMRC will aim to run at least one Targeted Call for Research 

annually. 

Funding provided for high quality research into Australian health problems. 

NHMRC will call for applications addressing a defined research topic to 

stimulate or greatly advance knowledge in a particular area of health and 

medical science for the benefit of the health of Australians. 

Work 

ongoing 

Centres of Research Excellence 

In 2015–16, the Centres of Research Excellence (CRE) scheme called for applications in four research 

streams. The outcomes of these funding rounds are outlined in the table below. 

Table 7 

Funding for Centres of Research Excellence 

Centres of Research Excellence stream Funded Amount 

Clinical Research 5 $12,149,997 

Health Services Research 5 $12,198,638 

Population Health Research 5 $12,478,085 

Infectious Disease Emergency Response Research 1 $4,996,416 

Total 16 $41,823,136 

36 


Targeted Calls for Research 

The outcomes of Targeted Calls for Research (TCR) funding rounds are outlined in the table below. 

Table 8 

Funding for Targeted Calls for Research 

Targeted Calls for Research Funded Amount 

Preparing Australia for the Genomics Revolution 1 $25,000,000 

Wind Farms and Human Health 2 $3,301,586 

Preventing Obesity in 18–24 Year Olds 5 $3,494,036 

Total 8 $31,795,622 

In 2015–16, the NHMRC revised its framework for TCRs and developed a priority- and impact-driven set of 

principles for consideration of a TCR. The new TCR framework will provide NHMRC with a mechanism to 

respond to emerging research needs and prioritise potential calls according to relative need and impact. 

Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases 

In 2015–16, NHMRC participated in a Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases request for applications on the 

prevention and management of chronic lung disease in low and middle income countries and in Indigenous 

communities in Australia and Canada. The outcomes of this round will be announced in late 2016. NHMRC is 

participating in the next Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases call which will focus on mental health. The call 

will open in late 2016. 


Target 5: Periodic review of established funding schemes 


Portfolio 

Budget 

Statement 

Undertake reviews of established funding programs to determine 

strengths and identify where improvements can be made. 

Periodic review of established funding schemes to determine strengths 

and identify where improvements can be made. 

Achieved 

Structural Review of NHMRC’s Grant Program 

In January 2016, NHMRC announced the commencement of an over-arching review of the structure of the 

NHMRC grant program. This review was prompted by concerns from the research sector about the impact 

of the intense competition caused by the rapid growth in grant application numbers and the rising costs 

of research, particularly the unsustainable burden placed on applicants and the thousands of expert peer 

reviewers who evaluate applications for NHMRC each year. 

The review is examining whether the current suite of grant schemes can be streamlined to relieve these 

pressures and optimise the significant investment in health and medical research to achieve the best 

possible health outcomes for Australians. An Expert Advisory Group was established to advise NHMRC’s 

CEO on the review. It assisted in the development of a consultation paper to seek the views of the research 

sector about possible alternative grant program structures. It is anticipated that the first stage of review will 

be finalised by December 2016, with advice provided to the CEO about whether and, if so, how to change 

the structure of NHMRC’s grant program. 


37

Partnership Projects Review 

The NHMRC Partnerships for Better Health – Partnership Projects working committee was established from 

23 March 2015 to 31 December 2015 to undertake a review of current Partnership Projects policies and 

provide advice to the NHMRC CEO. 

Key outcomes of the review included: 

• updating scheme documentation to provide more detail on translational and evaluative research 

• recruiting panel members with expertise in translation 

• exploring opportunities to increase awareness of the scheme 

• providing better support to young researchers identifying as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. 


Target 6: Completed reviews are presented to Research Committee for 

consideration 


Portfolio 

Budget 

Statement 

Present reviews of established funding programs to Research Committee 

for consideration and develop a plan for consultation and implementation. 

Completed reviews are presented to Research Committee for 

consideration, and implemented according to established timelines. 

Achieved 

NHMRC conducts post-implementation reviews (PIRs) of funding programs following Ministerial approval 

of grant outcomes, as part of continual improvement efforts. Where recommendations arising from PIRs 

involve significant changes to funding program policy, the Research Committee is consulted. 

In 2016, RC’s advice was sought on the eligibility requirements for the Research Fellowship (RF) scheme. 

RC advised the CEO on issues including the requirement for professorial applicants to apply at the two 

senior levels of the scheme and on the implications of this change for current Fellows holding consecutive 

Fellowships at the same level of seniority. Following RC’s advice, the requirement for professorial applicants 

to apply at the highest levels of the scheme will be removed from the scheme’s Funding Rules for 2017. 

Outcome 1: Support high quality health and medical research 

NHMRC invested over $800 million in high quality health and medical research in 2015. Approximately three 

quarters of this was for investigator-research and approximately one quarter for strategic priorities that align 

with the NHPAs and Australian Government priorities (as reflected in NHMRC’s Corporate Plan 2015-2016). 

In addition to supporting health and medical research, NHMRC’s investment strategy is designed to develop 

outstanding health and medical research capacity in Australia. Grants and fellowships offered by NHMRC are 

highly competitive and successful applicants are identified through rigorous independent peer review. 

NHMRC recognises the importance of international collaboration in research. In 2015–16, NHMRC joined 

with international partners to fund collaborative research, including with the European Union, the Californian 

Institute for Regenerative Medicine, the Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases (Type 2 Diabetes) and the 

National Natural Science Foundation of China (Type 2 Diabetes). 

Targeted research priorities for NHMRC included Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, preparing 

Australia for the genomics revolution and the prevention of obesity in young adults. In future, 

NHMRC’s strategic framework for research investment will facilitate research funding across national 

priorities. NHMRC’s structural review of its grant program will ensure that the organisation’s funding 

schemes are both efficient and sustainable. 

38 


GOAL 2: SUPPORT THE HEALTH AND MEDICAL RESEARCH WORKFORCE AND 

BUILD RESEARCHER CAPACITY 

Work with others to support the research workforce and build researcher 

capacity in fields relevant to health and medical research. 



Target 1: Report annually on the proportion of total MREA funding committed to 

key people support schemes by research ‘pillar’ 


Report annually on the proportion of total MREA funding committed to 

key people support schemes by research ‘pillar’, to support this activity 

and monitor levels of funding. 

Achieved 

Following ministerial announcement, data on each funding scheme is published on NHMRC’s website. 

This data includes a breakdown of funding by research pillar, gender and support for Aboriginal and Torres 

Strait Islander health research. 

Table 9 

Grant Type 

People support outcomes by broad research area 

Commitment 

Number of 

Grants 


Basic Sciences 

Postgraduate Scholarships $702,541 8 

Early Career Fellowships $14,147,754 42 

Career Development Fellowships $13,617,188 31 

Research Fellowships $27,133,885 37 

NHMRC-ARC Dementia Research Development Fellowships $16,388,801 28 

Practitioner Fellowships $467,961 1 

Translating Research into Practice Fellowships – – 

Clinical Medicine and Science 

Postgraduate Scholarships $4,221,885 43 






39

Table 9 continued 

Grant Type 

Commitment 

Number of 

Grants 

Practitioner Fellowships $6,363,144 13 

Translating Research into Practice Fellowships $876,515 5 

Health Services Research 




Career Development Fellowships – – 

Research Fellowships – – 


Practitioner Fellowships 

Translating Research into Practice Fellowships $1,051,818 6 

Public Health 

Postgraduate Scholarships $1,507,325 16 





Practitioner Fellowships $467,961 1 


Table 10 

People support outcomes by gender 

Grant Type Female Male 

Commitment 

Number 

of Grants 

Commitment 

Number 

of Grants 

Postgraduate Scholarships $4,440,626 47 $2,193,678 22 

Early Career Fellowships $21,497,202 68 $14,325,918 43 

Career Development Fellowships $13,109,064 30 $10,806,128 25 

Research Fellowships $19,645,460 28 $32,445,690 42 

NHMRC-ARC Dementia Research 

Development Fellowships 

$26,264,777 46 $17,404,809 30 

Practitioner Fellowships $1,590,684 3 $5,708,381 12 

Translating Research into Practice 

Fellowships 

$2,103,636 12 $175,303 1 

40 


Table 11 

People support outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander research 

Grant Type 

ATSI Research 

Commitment 

Number of 

Grants 






Practitioner Fellowships – – 


Target 2: Support the work of NHMRC’s Women in Health Science Committee 


Support the work of the NHMRC Women in Health Science Committee, 

including working with institutions to ensure they meet the requirements 

of the revised NHMRC Administering Institutions Policy in regard to 

gender equity. 

Work 

ongoing 


In 2015–16, NHMRC continued to support the work of the Women in Health Science Working Committee, 

which aims to gain a better understanding of the issues that face women researchers in health and medical 

research in their career progression and retention. This assists NHMRC to lead and support change by 

ensuring fair and inclusive funding processes and identifying mechanisms that could be implemented to 

overcome barriers to success for women in research. 

NHMRC’s Administering Institution (AI) policy includes seven key principles that oblige Institutions that 

receive NHMRC grants to establish policies to support the progression and retention of women in health 

and medical research. During the reporting period, NHMRC invited AIs to submit their policies for review 

against these principles. At the time of reporting, 77 of 81 AIs had submitted their policies for review. 

Target 3: Report annually on the percentage of women as Chief Investigators 


Report annually on the percentage of women as Chief Investigators on 

Project Grants, Program Grants and Research Fellowships. 

Achieved 

NHMRC has published on its website the Research Funding Facts Book, which reports on the percentage of 

women as Chief Investigators (CIs) across all of NHMRC’s funding schemes for the previous calendar year. 

The following table shows the percentage of women as chief investigators for the 2015–16 period. 


41

Table 12 

Percentage of women as Chief Investigators 

Grant Type All CI CIA 

Number 

of CIs 

Number of 

Females Percentage All CIA 

Number of 

Females 

Percentage 

Project Grants 2030 668 32.9% 516 158 30.6% 

Program Grants 49 8 16.3% 9 1 11.1% 

Research Fellowships 70 28 40.0% 70 28 40.0% 


Outcome 2: Support the health and medical research workforce and build 

researcher capacity 

NHMRC dedicated approximately 15 per cent of the MREA to funding individuals through its various 

fellowship and scholarship schemes. For the 2015 funding round, similar numbers of women investigators 

were funded through the fellowship schemes (128) compared to the previous year (121), with an increase 

in funded rate from 22.7 per cent to 26 per cent in the Research Fellowships scheme. For standard Project 

Grants there was a slight decrease in the funded rate of women as Chief Investigator A. 

NHMRC continues to meet its commitment to build capacity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander 

researchers. The Postgraduate Scholarship, Early Career Fellowship and Career Development Fellowship 

schemes funded a total of five from nine applications received from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander 

researchers, similar to the previous year. 

NHMRC recognises that health and medical research is multidisciplinary and that there is an increasing 

need for fluidity between academia and industry. To promote these activities, NHMRC encourages Career 

Development Fellowship applications from bioinformaticians / biostatisticians and those wanting to gain 

experience in industry. Six bioinformaticians / biostatisticians and one industry fellow were funded in 2015. 

42 


GOAL 3: BOOST DEMENTIA RESEARCH 

Boost dementia research: 

• Enhance research on dementia and its translation into policy and practice 

• Coordinate and translate national dementia research. 



Boosting Dementia Research 

Dementia is the third leading cause of death in Australia and no cure exists. 

The Australian Government, through NHMRC, will tackle the dementia burden 

via a series of initiatives to: boost Australia’s dementia research capacity; 

prioritise funding for vital new dementia research projects; and translate 

research into new treatments and better care for people with dementia. 

Operating within the NHMRC governance arrangements, the new NHMRC 

National Institute for Dementia Research will lead this effort, drawing together 

existing activity and developing a strategic research and translation agenda 

through identifying national research and translation priorities. 


Statement— 

Program 1.1: Health and 



Target 1: Establish the NHMRC National Institute for Dementia Research 

Corporate Plan Establish the NHMRC National Institute for Dementia Research (NNIDR). Achieved 


The NNIDR was established in July 2015, to target, coordinate and translate the strategic expansion of 

dementia research in Australia. The NNIDR will collaborate with Australia’s best researchers while also 

drawing on the expertise of consumers, health professionals, industry and policy makers to translate 

evidence into policy and practice. 

In 2015–16, the NNIDR has identified research strengths and opportunities and has undertaken nation-wide 

consultation and engagement with the dementia community. 

Target 2: Support the Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research 

Corporate Plan Support the Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research. Achieved 

NHMRC is providing $9 million funding over four years to the Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia 

Research for research into the prevention and treatment of dementia, in accordance with the Australian 

Government’s 2013 election commitment. This funding commenced in August 2014 and the Centre has 

made significant progress in addressing its research priorities. 

Target 3: Work with the Australian Research Council to build dementia research 

capacity 


Work with the Australian Research Council (ARC) to build dementia 

research capacity. 

Achieved 

In October 2015, Minister for Health, the Hon Sussan Ley, and Minister for Education and Training, 

the Hon Senator Simon Birmingham, announced more than $43 million for 76 NHMRC–ARC dementia 

research development fellowships. 


43

Target 4: Support large scale research in priority areas for dementia research 


Portfolio 

Budget 

Statements 

Support large scale research in priority areas for dementia research. 

Funding provided for large scale research projects in priority areas for 

dementia. 

Undertake additional grant round to support priority research projects. 

Achieved 

In August 2015, Minister for Health, the Hon Sussan Ley, announced $35.6 million in funding for six 

dementia research team grants. This included a large dementia clinical trial for people aged 55 to 75 years 

to test an online tool to reduce the risk of dementia, and projects aimed to uncover early warning signs of 

Alzheimer’s and non-Alzheimer’s disease dementias. 


This significant investment will focus Australian research teams on finding new ways of preventing and 

treating the disease and innovative models of care for people with dementia. 

The teams were funded across five research areas that align with the priorities of people with dementia 

and their carers: prevention, diagnosis, treatment, care and improving the quality of life for people living 

with dementia. 

Outcome 3: Boost dementia research 

The Boosting Dementia Initiative is delivering on its commitment to enhance research on dementia and 

to translate the results into policy and practice. Since its establishment in 2015, the NNIDR has seen 

the strengthening of collaboration and strategic focus in the dementia research sector. In its first year of 

operation the Institute developed a strategic roadmap for dementia research and translation, established its 

membership network and held its first annual Australian Dementia Forum. The forum was a highlight of the 

year, bringing together dementia researchers from across Australia. 

During the year, funding of $43 million was committed for 76 NHMRC-ARC Dementia Research 

Development Fellowships, $35.6 million for six Dementia Research Team Grants, and $2.6 million in 

grants for researchers to participate in the European Union Joint Program – Neurodegenerative Disease 

(JPco‐fuND). Funding was also provided for the Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research. 

44 


GOAL 4: SUPPORT COLLABORATIVE, MULTIDISCIPLINARY APPROACHES TO 

SOLVING HEALTH PROBLEMS 

Support collaborative, multidisciplinary approaches to solving 

health problems, including supporting Australia’s participation in 

international research. 



Support high quality health and medical research 

Commencing in 2015–16, funding will be provided for the NHMRC to 

support a new collaborative Program in Northern Australia. The Program, 

which will be undertaken in collaboration with Austrade, will focus on the 

research of tropical disease and the effective translation of this research 

into health policy and practice. 


Statement— 




Target 1: Promote and review management of multidisciplinary funding proposals 


Promote and review management of multidisciplinary funding proposals, 

ensuring that appropriate systems are in place to incorporate and assess 

contributions from disciplines outside the health and medical field, 

including physics, engineering and mathematics. 

Work 

ongoing 

There has been an increasing trend toward multidisciplinary applications. NHMRC accepts all applications 

addressing any health question, from basic science to health economics, and any multidisciplinary research 

questions that bring together these varied and cross-cutting disciplines. The Project Grant scheme is one 

of NHMRC’s key mechanisms to fund multidisciplinary research. Convening multidisciplinary grant review 

panels ensures that the applications are reviewed by panel members who have the appropriate expertise. 

An example is the genetics, molecular biology, bioinformatics and computational biology panel. 


The Northern Australia Tropical Disease Collaborative Research Program is another example of NHMRC’s 

commitment to funding multidisciplinary research to address health system challenges. It funds high quality, 

multidisciplinary research into the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of tropical disease. It aims to build 

strong collaborations and capacity in the health and medical research workforce, and promote the effective 

translation of this research into health policy and practice. 

Target 2: Undertake a collaborative, multidisciplinary tropical health research 

program 


Work with Austrade and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade 

(DFAT) to ensure a coordinated approach to NHMRC’s call for applications 

from consortia of research institutions to undertake a collaborative, 

multidisciplinary tropical health research program by December 2015, 

in order to implement an initiative in tropical health research and 

translation for Northern Australia. 

Work 

ongoing 

NHMRC convened a workshop of key stakeholders on 24 November 2015 to discuss implementation plans 

for the Northern Australia Tropical Disease Collaborative Research Program, including alignment with existing 

Australian Government tropical health programs. 


45

The aim of the workshop was to identify: 

• strengths and challenges in tropical health research in Northern Australia 

• significant gaps, opportunities and health policy priorities in Northern Australian tropical disease research 

• the scope of the new program. 

The workshop helped to ensure the program complements existing measures and targets gaps and 

priorities in tropical disease research. 

NHMRC established a separate arrangement with the DFAT for a combined application and assessment 

process to enable applicants to apply for separate funding from the department under the Tropical Disease 

Research Regional Collaboration Initiative. 


The program opened for applications on 24 February 2016 and closed on 6 April 2016. As at 30 June 2016, 

applications had undergone peer review to determine funding recommendations. 

Target 3: Develop an international engagement strategy to guide decisions on 

new collaborations 


Develop an international engagement strategy to guide decisions on new 

collaborations with the draft strategy to be finalised by January 2016. 

Achieved 

During 2015–16, NHMRC developed an international engagement strategy for prioritising new and existing 

activities with its international partners. 

The NHMRC International Engagement Strategy 2016–2019 outlines NHMRC’s approach to working 

with international partners over the next three years, with the four key principles for international 

engagement being: 

• strategic alignment 

• potential for scientific impact 

• potential for scientific diplomacy 

• resource implications. 

NHMRC will use this strategy to guide engagement in activities that align with Australian Government policy, 

the NHMRC Act and NHMRC’s Corporate Plan. 

46 


Target 4: Finalise collaborative research funding with key 

international organisations 


Finalise collaborative research funding with at least two international 

organisations by 2016 to address global health issues of relevance to our 

region. 

Achieved 

NHMRC and the Indian Council of Medical Research signed a memorandum of understanding on research 

collaboration in February 2016. NHMRC is in discussion with the Indian Council about activities to advance 

the development of research cooperation in health and medical research between India and Australia. 

NHMRC and the National Foundation for Science and Technology Development of Vietnam signed a 

memorandum of understanding on general cooperation in December 2015. NHMRC is in discussion with 

the foundation about activities to promote and encourage research and development collaboration amongst 

researchers from Vietnam and Australia. NHMRC and the Foundation plan to hold a joint symposium to 

discuss research and funding opportunities. 

Outcome 4: Support collaborative, multidisciplinary approaches to solving health 

problems 

NHMRC supports collaborative, multidisciplinary approaches to solving health problems through a number of 

different measures. 


The Northern Australia Tropical Disease Collaborative Research Program is one example of NHMRC’s funding 

of collaborative, multidisciplinary research to address health system challenges. 

NHMRC accepts applications in all areas related to health and medicine, from basic science to health 

economics. NHMRC’s flagship Project Grants scheme is a key vehicle to fund such applications and a large 

number of multidisciplinary panels are established to enable this, particularly as there has been an increasing 

trend towards multidisciplinary applications. 

NHMRC also supports research collaboration internationally through joint initiatives with international 

partners. In 2015–16, two new agreements were signed with partner agencies in Asia to address global 

health issues of relevance to region. 


47

GOAL 5: PARTICIPATE IN DEVELOPING NATIONAL STRATEGIES FOR RESEARCH 

INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT 

Participate in developing national strategies for research infrastructure 

investment, including collaborative, priority-driven approaches. 



Target 1: Develop policies for national research infrastructure investment that will 

reduce duplication and encourage collaboration 



Continue discussions with the Department of Health, the Department of 

Education and Training and the Department of Industry and Science to 

develop policies for national research infrastructure investment that will 

reduce duplication and encourage collaboration. 

Work 

ongoing 

The NHMRC CEO is an ex-officio member of the National Research Infrastructure Roadmap Expert Working 

Group. This group is supporting the Chief Scientist for Australia in the development of a roadmap to identify 

Australia’s priority research infrastructure needs over the next five to 10 years. 

Target 2: Award eligible Independent Medical Research Institutes approximately 

20 cents per dollar of the total yearly value of grants held 


Aim to award eligible independent Medical Research Institutes (iMRIs) 

approximately 20 cents per dollar of the total yearly value of grants held 

by each iMRI in order to continue supporting health and medical research 

infrastructure. 

Achieved 

NHMRC provides funding annually for infrastructure costs to NHMRC-approved administering institutions 

that are independent Medical Research Institutes. No application is required for Independent Research 

Institute Infrastructure Support Scheme (IRIISS) funding; grants are allocated to eligible administering 

institutions that hold competitively awarded NHMRC research grants in a particular funding year. 

NHMRC awarded 19 cents per dollar of the total yearly value of grants held by the Medical 

Research Institutes. 

Outcome 5: Participate in developing national strategies for research 

infrastructure investment 

NHMRC continues to participate in discussions with other Government departments in developing policies 

for national research infrastructure investment that will reduce duplication and encourage collaboration. 

These discussions included the support provided to independent Medical Research Institutes for the indirect 

costs of research. 

The CEO of NHMRC is an ex-officio member of the National Research Infrastructure Roadmap Expert 

Working Group. The Roadmap will be used to support future investment decisions that enable Australian 

researchers to access world class major national research infrastructure. 

In 2015–16 NHMRC awarded over $30.5 million in IRIISS funding across 25 independent medical research 

institutes to support their indirect costs of research. 

48 


GOAL 6: SUPPORT RESEARCH THAT WILL PROVIDE BETTER HEALTH OUTCOMES 

FOR ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PEOPLES 

Support research that will provide better health outcomes for Aboriginal 

and Torres Strait Islander peoples. 



Target 1: Commit at least five per cent of funding to Indigenous health research 


Portfolio 

Budget 

Statements 

Commit at least five per cent of the annual MREA allocation to Aboriginal 

and Torres Strait Islander health research and researchers. 

Five per cent of annual research budget awarded to Indigenous health 

research. 

Achieved 

NHMRC is committed to improving the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, spending at 

least five per cent of funding under the Medical Research Endowment Fund on Aboriginal and Torres Strait 

Islander health each year. 

In 2015–16, this target was achieved with six and a half per cent, approximately $53.4 million, of MREA 

expenditure on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health research. 


Target 2: Report on the percentage of grants that address Indigenous health 

challenges 


Report annually on the percentage of grants awarded each year that 

address Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health challenges and 

that include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander researchers as a Chief 

Investigator. 

Achieved 

For the 2015–16 reporting period, four per cent of awarded grants had an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander 

researcher as a Chief Investigator. 

Target 3: Support the NHMRC Principal Committee Indigenous Caucus 


Support the NHMRC Principal Committee Indigenous Caucus (PCIC) and 

seek its advice on strategies. 

Work 

ongoing 

The current PCIC was established in 2015 and met twice in 2015–16. Membership is drawn from NHMRC 

Council and committees, and includes three early career researchers. The PCIC’s work plan for the current 

triennium includes a focus on: 

• research translation in Indigenous health 

• Targeted Calls for Research 

• the tripartite agreement between NHMRC, Health Research Council of New Zealand, and Canadian 

Institutes of Health Research (this agreement has the goal of improving the health of Indigenous 

peoples in these three countries) 

• building the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander research workforce 

• developing Road Map III, which will drive the next stage of NHMRC’s strategy to improve Aboriginal and 

Torres Strait Islander health through research. 


49

Target 4: Conduct a one-day forum to identify evidence-practice gaps 

Corporate Plan Conduct a one-day forum to identify evidence-practice gaps. Achieved 

The NHMRC Translating Research into Policy and Practice forum was held on 17 May 2016 in Canberra, 

with participants from a number of organisations, including the National Aboriginal Community Controlled 

Health Organisation, the Lowitja Institute, the Congress of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nurses and 

Midwives, the Australian Indigenous Doctors Association, the Australasian Cochrane Centre, the Department 

of Health, and various Centres of Research Excellence. 


The aim of the forum was to identify evidence practice gaps and evidence policy gaps in Aboriginal and 

Torres Strait Islander health. The stages of the life course (maternal and child health, children, youth, 

adults and older people) were used to identify specific gaps in policy and practice for Aboriginal and Torres 

Strait Islander people. 

Outcome 6: Support research that will provide better health outcomes for 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples 

NHMRC continued to achieve its commitment of allocating at least five per cent of the MREA to Aboriginal 

and Torres Strait Islander health research, allocating six and a half per cent in 2015–16. An example of the 

importance of funding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health research can be seen in NHMRC’s 

Ten of the Best NHMRC Research Projects 2015, published in June 2016. This annual publication recognises 

NHMRC-funded research projects completed in the previous year that have achieved results of particular 

significance for the improvement of human health. The Indigenous Health Outcomes Patient Evaluation 

project scrutinised the vast data held by modern healthcare systems to understand the factors influencing 

disadvantage for Indigenous Australians. This research will translate into better disease prevention and 

patient care for Indigenous Australians, as well as more effective health care spending. 

In 2015–16, the PCIC provided advice to NHMRC on key issues relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait 

Islander health research, including the development of Road Map III. This road map will drive the next stage 

of NHMRC’s strategy to improve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health through research. This important 

work will continue in the next reporting period. 

50 


GOAL 7: PROMOTE ACCESS TO AND USE OF ‘BIG DATA’ TO IMPROVE HEALTH 

Promote access to and use of ‘big data’ to improve health. 



Target 1: Collaborate with relevant Australian and international groups regarding 

the use of ‘big data’ 


Continue to contribute to the discussion regarding the use of ‘big data’ 

by engaging in collaborative meetings/workshops with relevant Australian 

and international groups (e.g. the Global Alliance for Genomics and 

Health). 

NHMRC is committed to maximising the benefits from NHMRC-funded research, including by ensuring 

greater access to research data. In 2015–16, NHMRC signed a memorandum of understanding with the 

Australian National Data Service to work in collaboration to encourage re-use of data through consistent 

metadata standards to promote sharing of data generated through NHMRC-funded research. 

Work 

ongoing 

Discipline-specific national and international standards are in place, or under development, to ensure that 

shared data is of high quality. NHMRC has contributed to developing and implementing the following 

frameworks and standards: 


• Global Alliance for Genomics and Health – Framework for Responsible Sharing of Genomic and 

Health-Related Data 

• International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) – Global sharing of ICGC data 

• Wellcome Trust – Sharing research data to improve public health: full joint statement by funders of 

health research. 

NHMRC is also working with the Global Research Collaboration for Infectious Diseases Preparedness, led by 

Wellcome Trust, to develop a data sharing plan for public health emergencies. 

Target 2: Continue to encourage data-sharing practices to maximise the benefits 

derived from NHMRC-funded research 


Continue to encourage data sharing practices to maximise the benefits 

derived from NHMRC-funded research. 

Work 

ongoing 

NHMRC has an important responsibility to ensure researchers and members of the community can access 

the outputs of research. This means making data publicly accessible. NHMRC encourages researchers to 

disseminate and share their research data through publicly accessible databases or repositories. 

NHMRC has developed its Data Sharing Statement to encourage data sharing and providing access to 

data and other research outputs arising from NHMRC-supported research. The statement is promoted to 

researchers through meetings, conferences and NHMRC’s website. 

All researchers applying for funding are encouraged by NHMRC to have an ORCID (open research and 

contributor ID) identifier, which is a unique ID to identify researchers, link, integrate and access data. 

In February 2016, NHMRC became a member of the new Australian ORCID Consortium, which will support 

maximising the benefits of ORCID within Australia. 


51

Target 3: Refine guidance for researchers to consider data and metadata 

management in their research 


Continue to refine guidance for researchers to consider data and 

metadata management when planning and conducting research by 

regularly reviewing relevant guidelines. 

Work 

ongoing 

NHMRC requires that any publication arising from NHMRC supported research must be deposited into 

an open access institutional repository and/or made available in another open access format within a 

12-month period from the date of publication. NHMRC also requires that metadata of their publications be 

made available immediately upon publication. 


NHMRC continues to encourage researchers to share their data as broadly as possible through the NHMRC 

Data Sharing Statement. 

Target 4: Release the NHMRC Principles for accessing and using publicly funded 

data for health research 


Finalise and release the NHMRC Principles for accessing and using 

publicly funded data for health research. 

Achieved 

The Principles for Accessing and Using Publicly Funded Data for Health Research provide information and 

guidance for researchers and organisations when researchers seek permission from organisations to access 

and use data for their research. 

These principles were finalised and issued by the CEO in January 2016. Australian Government data 

custodians and the research sector were advised of this release, with advice on how to implement 

the principles. 

Outcome 7: Promote access to and use of ‘big data’ to improve health 

NHMRC has continued to work with national and international agencies to promote the use 

and sharing of data. 

Internationally, this has included working with the Wellcome Trust, Global Alliance for Genomics and Health 

and the International Cancer Genome Consortium. Nationally, NHMRC is working with the Australian 

National Data Service, Universities Australia, Council of Australian University Libraries, Australasian Open 

Access Support Group, and the Australian Research Council to develop an open access goals and principles 

document for Australia. NHMRC is also updating its open access policies and has joined the Australian 

ORCID Consortium, working with the research sector to make research more accessible. 

52 


GOAL 8: IMPROVE THE GRANT APPLICATION AND PEER REVIEW PROCESSES 

Continually improve the grant application and peer review processes and 

reduce red tape for researchers. 

Simplified and Consistent Health and Medical Research 

NHMRC will review the effectiveness of changes made to the Research 

Grants Management System and the introduction of video conferencing 

for some grant review panels to ensure an improved and consistent 

application process as well as a streamlined reporting system. 




Statement— 




Target 1: Review peer review process to enhance the efficiency of the peer 

review system 


Continue to review aspects of the peer review process to maximise the 

excellence and efficiency of the peer review system and to manage the 

burden on peer reviewers. 

Work 

ongoing 

A new peer review model was trialled on the Development Grants funding scheme in the reporting period, 

with the purpose of reducing peer reviewer burden. The new model significantly increased the number 

of assessments per application to increase the reproducibility of scoring profiles, reduce assessor errors, 

provide wider expertise coverage and reduce the impact of divergent scoring. A key outcome of the trial 

was a substantial reduction in the time that each expert spent contributing to peer review. By implementing 

discussion of applications at the grant review panel meeting ‘by exception’, the meeting time was reduced 

from 3 days to 3–4 hours. This enabled the meetings to occur via videoconference, which conferred further 

advantages including increased flexibility for panellists. 


Target 2: Work towards an improved and consistent application process and 

streamlined reporting system 


Work towards an improved and consistent application process and 

streamlined reporting system, including: 

• commence implementation of a new application front end to the 

Research Grants Management System (RGMS) 

• successfully implementing video conferencing for panel meetings 

where appropriate, with the first successful Go Live Grant Review 

Panel (GRP) to be held by October 2015 

• trialling a streamlined peer review process for key funding schemes by 

June 2016. 

Commence implementation of self-service reporting capability to make 

NHMRC grant data more accessible. 

Work 

ongoing 


53

During the reporting period, NHMRC: 

• began to implement a new application front end to the Research Grants Management System. This will 

provide a more consistent approach and interface for researchers submitting grant applications 

• drafted an expression of interest, expected to be released in July 2016, to engage a suitable vendor and 

begin to implement a cloud-based, self-service data-reporting tool. The design phase is completed and 

initial implementation with a sub-set of NHMRC data will commence in July 2016. Full implementation is 

due in June 2017 

• successfully implemented video conferencing for panel meetings where appropriate. This will result in 

reduced travel time and expenses for panel members. 


Outcome 8: Improve the grant application and peer review processes 

NHMRC continued to enhance its grant application and peer review processes in order to reduce the burden 

on the research sector, enabling researchers to spend more time producing high-quality research to benefit 

human health. 

A trial of a new peer review model in the Development Grants scheme resulted in a substantial reduction in 

the time required of the expert peer review panel members. The implementation of video-conferencing for 

review panels, where appropriate, also reduces the need for travel by the thousands of peer reviewers who 

are located throughout Australia and overseas. 

NHMRC also began implementing a more user-friendly front end of the Research Grants Management 

System, which enables researchers to apply for, track and administer NHMRC grants online, as well as 

participate in peer review. 

54 


TRANSLATION 

Support the translation of health and medical research into clinical practice, policy and health systems and 

the effective commercialisation of research discoveries. 


Figure 8 

NHMRC strategy - translation 


Investment 

Translation 

Integrity 



Investment 

Translation 

Integrity 









into clinical clinical practice, practice, policy and health policy systems and the health systems and the 

of research discoveries 






















55

GOAL 1: SUPPORT TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH 

Support translational research, including research focused on the 

National Health Priority Areas, the Australian Government Science and 

Research Priority in Health and other major health issues. 



Target 1: Support translation-related research activities through a range of 

funding schemes 


Support translation-related research activities through a range of funding 

schemes. 

Achieved 


NHMRC funding that supports research translation is outlined in the following table. 

Table 13 NHMRC commitments by research focus 

Grant purpose 

Amount 

Build Capacity $280,934,020 

Create Knowledge $393,280,485 

Translate Research $191,474,992 

Total $865,689,498 

The Cochrane Collaboration 

The Australian Government, through NHMRC, continued to fund Australia’s national licence to access the 

Cochrane Library in 2015–16. This allows access to the Cochrane Library for all Australian residents through a 

Wiley subscription. The Cochrane Library is an online resource that features over 6,000 published systematic 

reviews of evidence for healthcare interventions and protocols for Cochrane Reviews. Australians are 

among its highest per capita users in the world. Funding was also provided to 11 Cochrane entities located 

in Australia, including the Australasian Cochrane Centre. The funding of $1.6 million in 2015–16 enabled 

these entities to continue their review work in specialist fields such as public health, consumers and 

communication, breast cancer and acute respiratory infections. 

Target 2: Implement a collaborative initiative in tropical health research and 

translation for Northern Australia 


Work with Austrade and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade 

to implement a collaborative initiative in tropical health research and 

translation for Northern Australia, developing a coordinated approach to 

the measure, with at least three meetings involving these stakeholders by 

December 2015. 

Work 

ongoing 

On 24 November 2015, NHMRC convened a workshop to discuss implementation plans for the Northern 

Australia Tropical Disease Collaborative Research Program, bringing together representatives from a 

number of organisations, including Austrade and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). 

Discussions included how best to align with existing Australian Government tropical health programs. 

56 


NHMRC also established a separate arrangement with DFAT for a combined application and 

assessment process to enable applicants to apply for separate funding from DFAT under the program, 

increasing opportunities for funding. 

NHMRC continues to meet with DFAT and other agencies delivering related elements of the Developing 

Northern Australia initiatives. 

Target 3: Establish the Health Translation Advisory Committee and work program 

informed by Council 


Establish the Health Translation Advisory Committee (HTAC) and work 

program informed by Council. 

Achieved 

The Health Translation Advisory Committee (HTAC) was established on 29 June 2015. The committee advises 

the CEO and Council of NHMRC on opportunities to improve health outcomes in areas including clinical 

care, public, population and environmental health, communicable diseases and prevention of illness through 

effective translation of research into health care and clinical practice. 

The committee has developed its work plan. Its focus is on improving the clinical trials environment in 

Australia, NHMRC’s data strategy, measuring the impact of NHMRC-funded research, and promoting 

implementation research and action as part of a NHMRC research translation strategy. Importantly, HTAC is 

providing specific advice on NHMRC’s research translation activities in Indigenous health. 


Target 4: Support priority-driven research 


Support priority driven research through: 

• finalising the peer review of applications to the targeted call for 

research in obesity by December 2015 

• calling for applications for a Centre of Research Excellence in 

infectious disease by December 2015 

• finalising arrangements with Singapore’s Agency for Science, 

Technology and Research (A*STAR) in respect of a call for applications 

addressing obesity and metabolic disease by December 2015 

• calling for applications from consortia of research institutions to 

undertake a multidisciplinary tropical health research program by 

December 2015 

• undertaking at least one dementia-focused grant round with outcomes 

announced by December 2016. 

Work 

ongoing 

Targeted Call for Research – Obesity 

Peer review for the Targeted Call for Research into Engaging and Retaining Young Adults in Interventions 

to Improve Eating Behaviours and Health Outcomes (Preventing Obesity in 18–24 year olds TCR) was 

completed in December 2015. As at 30 June 2016, these grants had not been announced. 

Centre of Research Excellence – Infectious diseases 

The intent of the CRE in Infectious Disease Emergency Response Research is to provide support for a single 

team of researchers to establish a national research capacity that responds to major infectious disease 

threats. Peer review for this program was completed in March 2016. As at 30 June 2016, these grants had 

not been announced. 


57

Obesity and metabolic disease 

NHMRC and A*STAR are continuing discussion regarding a joint research call on obesity and metabolic 

diseases. This will promote and encourage research and development activities between researchers from 

Singapore and Australia. 

Tropical health research program 

NHMRC called for applications from teams to undertake innovative, high quality research into the prevention, 

diagnosis and treatment of tropical diseases through the Northern Australia Tropical Disease Collaborative 

Research Program. The Program opened for applications on 24 February 2016 and closed on 6 April 2016. 

As at 30 June 2016, these applications had undergone peer review to determine funding recommendations. 


Dementia-focused research 

NHMRC has allocated funding to support a small number of Australian-based researchers who are 

participating as external collaborators on international consortia under the European Union Joint Program 

– Neurodegenerative Disease (JPND) Call for Proposals: European research projects on neurodegenerative 

diseases: risk and protective factors, longitudinal cohort approaches and advanced experimental models 

(JPco-fuND). 

In September 2015, the Minister for Health, the Hon Sussan Ley MP, announced $2.6 million in funding for 

two grants as part of the NHMRC National Institute for Dementia Research Grants Priority Round 1 

– JPco‐fuND. 

Outcome 1: Support translational research 

NHMRC has achieved its goal of supporting translational research, including research focused on the 

National Health Priority Areas, the Australian Government Science and Research Priority in Health and 

other major health issues by funding the range of schemes listed above, as well as by establishing the 

HTAC. These actions ensure bridging of the gap between the knowledge created through research and the 

translation of that knowledge into policy and practice. 

NHMRC ensures the recognition of achievements in research translation is captured in aspects of its 

scheme’s assessment criteria such as in the Program Grants selection criteria, and the Partnership Projects 

category descriptors. 

58 


GOAL 2: SUPPORT THE TRANSLATION OF HEALTH AND MEDICAL RESEARCH 

Provide national leadership in promoting translation of knowledge 

created through research into clinical practice, health policy, health 

services and systems and public health and expand Australia’s 

capabilities in research translation. 




Portfolio Budget Statement— 

NHMRC will continue to support its Research Translation Faculty, which 

has been established to assist in the development of evidence-based 

advice to Government and the public. The Faculty, which is comprised 

of around 2,900 NHMRC-supported senior researchers, has identified 

major gaps where strong research evidence exists, but is not being 

used in health care policy and practice. In 2015–16, NHMRC will work 

on action to address these gaps. In 2015–16, NHMRC will also host its 

fourth Research Translation Faculty Symposium with the aim of helping 

to build research translation understanding and capability amongst 

Australia’s research community. 

In 2015–16, to update current Government advice and in response to 

community concerns about fluoridation, NHMRC will release for public 

consultation a draft information paper on the health effects of water 

fluoridation. Draft guidance on parenting messages to promote children’s 

emotional and social development, and well-being will also be open for 

public comment. 





Target 1: Fund Partnerships for Better Health projects and centres 


Work with states and territories, non-government organisations and the 

private sector to fund Partnerships for Better Health projects and centres. 

Work 

ongoing 

NHMRC and its partner organisations have established two partnership centres, one focusing on cognitive 

and related functional decline in older people, and a second focusing on systems perspectives on preventing 

lifestyle-related chronic health problems. Both are in their fourth year of operation. Applications for a 

third centre focusing on health system sustainability were under review as at 30 June 2016, with an 

announcement expected towards the end of 2016. 

NHMRC continued to operate the Partnership Projects scheme, awarding grants to create new opportunities 

for researchers, service providers and policy makers to work together. 

Target 2: Promote the role of Advanced Health Research and Translation Centres 


Continue to promote the important role of Advanced Health Research 

and Translation Centres (AHRTCs) in the provision of research-based and 

evidence-based health care, and provide opportunities for recognition 

of additional Centres. Engage with the sector to develop the initiative 

further, including via a stakeholder workshop with existing and 

potential AHRTCs. 

Work 

ongoing 


59

In March 2015, NHMRC recognised four centres that excel in research and the translation of evidence into 

excellent patient care, and demonstrate a strong research and translation focus in the education of health 

professionals at an international level. 

A successful centre workshop was held on 5 November 2015. Feedback from this has assisted in the 

development of a second call for submission for organisations to achieve recognition as an AHRTC, which is 

planned for release in the second half of 2016. 

NHMRC provided the four existing centres with an opportunity to apply for Translational Research Project 

for Improved Health Care grants of up to $100,000 to support tightly focused translational research projects. 

Outcomes from the funding round are expected in the second half of 2016. 


Target 3: Continue to address evidence-practice gaps 


Continue to address evidence-practice gaps by taking opportunities to 

progress elements of the Research Translation Faculty’s Cases for Action. 

Work 

ongoing 

In 2014–15, the Research Translation Faculty developed Cases for Action, with a range of ideas for 

improving health policy and practice. All Cases for Action have been publicly released on NHMRC’s website. 

NHMRC has continued to work with relevant organisations to support consideration of these ideas. 

Target 4: Work with the Commonwealth, states and territories to identify issues of 

mutual concern 


Work with the Commonwealth and states and territories to identify and 

progress advice on issues of mutual concern. 

Work 

ongoing 

NHMRC held two meetings of the Informal Research and Translation Network, which were well attended by 

the representatives of Commonwealth, state and territory governments. The outcomes of these meetings 

were the promotion of collaboration and engagement across jurisdictions. 

Target 5: Work with AHPPC to develop research preparedness in response to 

infectious disease threats to health 


Work with Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) to 

develop research preparedness in response to infectious disease threats 

to health. 

Work 

ongoing 

Throughout the reporting period, NHMRC continued to work with the AHPPC to integrate research into 

policies that aim to develop preparedness to respond to new and emerging health threats in our region and 

internationally. This collaborative approach includes developing a process to set research priorities. 

NHMRC also conducted a funding round for a Centre of Research Excellence (CRE) in Infectious Disease 

Emergency Response Research. The aim of the CRE is to establish a national network of leading 

Australian researchers that will deliver a coordinated and evidence-based response to infectious diseases. 

The outcomes of this funding will be announced in July 2016. 

60 


Target 6: Publish an updated Statement on Consumer and Community 

Participation in Health and Medical Research 


Publish an updated Statement on Consumer and Community Participation 

in Health and Medical Research. 

Work 

ongoing 

NHMRC understands that engaging with consumers and the community is essential to successfully 

perform its functions. The Statement on Consumer and Community Participation in Health and Medical 

Research aims to support consumer and community participation across all types and levels of health and 

medical research. 

Public consultation on a revised Statement was conducted in mid-2014 and a total of 35 responses were 

received. The statement was updated in response to this feedback and reviewed by NHMRC’s Community 

and Consumer Advisory Group. 

The revised statement will next be considered by the NHMRC Council, with public release planned for 

late 2016. 

Target 7: Establish the Health Translation Advisory Committee 


Establish the Health Translation Advisory Committee (HTAC) and work 

program informed by Council. 

Work 

ongoing 


Established by the Minister for Health in June 2015, the HTAC met three times throughout the year to 

provide advice to the CEO and Council. Its focus was on improving the clinical trials environment in Australia, 

NHMRC’s data strategy, measuring the impact of NHMRC-funded research, and promoting implementation 

research as part of a NHMRC research translation strategy. Importantly, HTAC will be providing specific 

advice on the NHMRC’s research translation activities in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health. 

Target 8: Host the Fourth Research Translation Symposium 

Corporate Plan Host the Fourth Research Translation Symposium. Achieved 

Held in Sydney on 27–28 October 2015, the fourth annual NHMRC Research Translation Symposium was 

attended by 316 delegates. 

With a theme of Policy and Research: Working together to improve the health of Australians, the symposium 

was held jointly with the Centre for Informing Policy in Health with Evidence from Research. The goal of the 

symposium was to create more effective working relationships between health and medical researchers and 

policy makers. The symposium explored key themes of knowledge exchange, and better engagement and 

integration of policy makers with researchers. 

Target 9: Host a stakeholder workshop on the Advanced Health Research and 

Translation Centres initiative 


Host a stakeholder workshop to facilitate discussion and feedback on the 

Advanced Health Research and Translation Centres (AHRTC) initiative. 

Achieved 


61

NHMRC held a workshop on 5 November 2015 in which representatives from each of the four centres 

shared examples of the highlights and successes of their centres. Participants then considered an options 

paper to help further develop the AHRTC initiative, and took part in small group discussions on the strengths 

and weaknesses of the first call for recognition as an AHRTC. 

Outcomes from this workshop have informed the development of a second call for submissions for 

organisations to achieve recognition as an AHRTC. 

Target 10: Accept key research priorities identified and presented by NHMRC 

National Institute for Dementia Research 



Portfolio 

Budget 

Statement 

Accept key research priorities identified and presented by NHMRC 

National Institute for Dementia Research (NNIDR). 

Identify priorities for dementia research and translation. Priorities 

identified by NNIDR and accepted by NHMRC in 2015–16. 

Achieved 

The NNIDR has been further refining priorities through the development of a strategic roadmap for research 

and translation. In 2015–16, NNIDR established five priorities for dementia research and translation following 

extensive national consultation involving consumers, researchers, medical practitioners, aged care providers 

and public sector representatives. The priorities are: 

• prevention 

• assessment and diagnosis 

• intervention and treatment 

• living with dementia 

• care. 

Research and translation priorities supported by NHMRC funding will produce short and long term outcomes 

for people with dementia and their families and carers across these domains. 

Target 11: Commence a review of the Australian Guidelines to Reduce Health 

Risks from Drinking Alcohol 


Commence a review of the Australian Guidelines to Reduce Health Risks 

from Drinking Alcohol. 

Work 

ongoing 

NHMRC, in conjunction with the Department of Health, has undertaken to review the evidence underpinning 

the Australian Guidelines to reduce the health risks from drinking Alcohol (2009). Public consultation on the 

draft guideline is expected to occur in early 2017. 

Target 12: Finalise review on the health effects of water fluoridation 

Corporate Plan Finalise review on the health effects of water fluoridation. Work 

ongoing 

62 


In early 2016, the NHMRC completed its evidence review of the dental and health effects of water 

fluoridation. The outcomes of this review were then analysed using the Grading of Recommendations 

Assessment Development and Evaluation approach, and a draft information paper developed. This will 

undergo public consultation later in 2016. 

The NHMRC Council will consider the outcomes of the review and the Information Paper in 2017, and advise 

on whether or not the NHMRC Public Statement on the Efficacy and Safety of Water Fluoridation (2007) 

requires updating. 

Target 13: Update the Australian Guidelines for the Prevention and Control of 

Infection in Healthcare 


Work with ACSQHC to update the Australian Guidelines for the 

Prevention and Control of Infection in Healthcare 

The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC) and NHMRC signed a 

memorandum of understanding in early 2016 to update the Australian Guidelines for the Prevention and 

Control of Infection in Healthcare, which were last revised in 2010. 

Work 

ongoing 

In January 2016, NHMRC in consultation with ACSQHC established an Infection Control Guidelines 

Advisory Committee to provide guidance and advice on this project. The committee was selected to ensure 

appropriate expertise in the key areas of infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance and microbiology, 

healthcare associated infection, paediatrics, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and consumer 

representation. The initial task of this committee is to advise on priorities for evidence reviews to underpin 

the revision. 


NHMRC expect the 2010 guidelines to be updated by late 2018. 

Target 14: Provide research evidence and advice to the Government as needed 

Corporate Plan Provide research evidence and advice to the Government as needed. Achieved 

Throughout the reporting period NHMRC provided a number of ministerial briefs and submissions to the 

Government, as well as providing input to external organisations, such as Department of Health. 

Table 14 

Advice provided to Government 

Advice 

Number 

Ministerial Briefs prepared by NHMRC 34 

Ministerial submissions 44 

Ministerial and departmental correspondence 144 

NHMRC input to external entities 263 


63

Target 15: Greater than 50 per cent citation rate of journal articles resulting from 

NHMRC funded research 

Portfolio 

Budget 

Statement 

Greater than 50 per cent citation rate of journal articles resulting from 

NHMRC funded research 

Achieved 

NHMRC’s bibliometric report, Measuring Up, examines how often NHMRC funded research papers are 

cited by other researchers. The 2016 report provides an indication of how Australian publications rank within 

the world’s health and medical research. It revealed that NHMRC continued to perform well compared to 

international benchmarks. The citation performance of NHMRC-supported publications was 68 per cent 

above the world average. 


The latest Measuring Up report will be published in late 2016. 

Outcome 2: Support the translation of health and medical research 

NHMRC has continued to support the translation of health and medical research into clinical practice, policy 

and health systems. This includes continued collaborations with decision-makers, managers, clinicians and 

researchers through our Partnership Centres and Partnership Projects grant schemes, and the new 

Advanced Health Research and Translation Centre initiative. 

NHMRC has also worked closely with the Commonwealth, state and territory governments, including 

working to develop research preparedness in response to infection disease threats. The importance of 

effective working relationships between policy makers and health and medical researchers was explored at 

NHMRC’s Fourth Research Translation Symposium in October 2015. 

This year, NHMRC progressed the updating of the Statement on Consumer and Community Participation in 

Health and Medical Research, which is planned for release in late 2016. The NHMRC National Institute for 

Dementia Research has worked closely with consumers, clinicians, aged care providers and public sector 

representatives in establishing priorities for dementia research and translation. During the year, funding of 

$43 million was committed for 76 NHMRC-ARC Dementia Research Development Fellowships and 

$35.6 million for six Dementia Research Team Grants. The linkages being developed through the activities 

of the NHMRC National Institute for Dementia Research are enabling a more integrated approach to the 

translation of these research findings. 

NHMRC, supported by expert advice from its Health Translation Advisory Committee, provides research 

evidence and advice to Government, as well as to the public. This year, NHMRC completed an evidence 

review of the dental and health effects of water fluoridation and worked collaboratively with the ACSQHC to 

begin updating the Australian Guidelines for the Prevention and Control of Infection in Healthcare. 

64 


GOAL 3: DEVELOP PUBLIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND 

CLINICAL ADVICE 

Maintain a leadership role in the development of public and environmental 

health and clinical advice designed to prevent illness, improve health, 

enhance clinical care and support the states and territories in achieving 

consistent standards. 




NHMRC recognises the importance of reliable and timely evidence 

for clinicians, consumers and policy makers. In 2015–16, NHMRC will 

continue to approve high quality guidelines prepared by third parties and 

maintain its leadership role in guideline development through a program of 

work to incorporate greater use of technology in guideline development. 


Statement— 




Target 1: Approve high quality clinical guidelines prepared by third parties 


Portfolio 

Budget 

Statement 

Release third party guidelines approved by Council that meet the 

procedures and requirements for meeting the 2011 NHMRC standard for 

clinical practice guidelines. 

Approve high quality clinical guidelines prepared by third parties. 

Third party guidelines approved by Council and CEO of NHMRC meet 

quality standards. 

Achieved 


In 2015–16, five clinical practice guidelines developed by third parties were considered by Council and 

approved by the CEO. 

Table 15 

Clinical practice guidelines approved by NHMRC 

Guideline Responsible organisation Description 

Patient Blood Management 

Guidelines Module 6: 

Neonatal and paediatrics 

(recommendations) 

Clinical practice guidelines 

and principles of care for 

people with dementia 


National Blood Authority 

National Health and 

Medical Research Council 

Partnership Centre for 

Dealing with Cognitive and 

Related Functional Decline 

in Older People 

Module 6 is intended to assist and guide 

health-care professionals in making clinical 

decisions about blood management in 

neonatal and paediatric patients. 

The guidelines will provide health 

professionals and carers in primary 

care, aged care and hospital settings 

with access to recommendations 

reflecting current evidence on dementia 

care to better respond to the needs 

and preferences of the person living 

with dementia. 


65

Guideline Responsible organisation Description 

Clinical practice 

guidelines: PSA Testing 

and Early Management of 

Test‐Detected Prostate 

Cancer (recommendations) 

Prostate Cancer Foundation 

Australia and Cancer 

Council Australia 

These guidelines provide health 

professionals access to evidence-based 

recommendations for using the prostate 

specific antigen (PSA) blood test to assess 

prostate cancer risk and manage testdetected 

patients. The recommendations 

also cover matters such as retesting, 

active surveillance, watchful waiting and 

biopsy. 


National Evidence 

Based Guideline on 

Secondary Prevention of 

Cardiovascular Disease 

in Type 2 Diabetes 


The Australian 

Immunisation Handbook, 

10th edition 

(minor amendments 

approved). 

Baker IDI Heart and 

Diabetes Institute 

Australian Technical Advisory 

Group on Immunisation 

This guideline addresses the management 

of adults with type 2 diabetes, in 

relation to the prevention of recurrence 

of cardiovascular events. The focus is 

on individuals already known to have 

symptomatic cardiovascular disease 

(e.g. prior myocardial infarction or stroke). 

The Australian Immunisation 

Handbook provides clinical advice for 

health professionals on the safest and 

most effective use of vaccines in their 

practice. 

A third party guideline approved by the CEO has been developed in accordance with the requirements 

of the NHMRC’s Procedures and requirements for meeting the 2011 NHMRC standard for clinical 

practice guidelines. From 1 October 2015, NHMRC approval of third party guidelines has been granted 

to guideline recommendations only. (This includes evidence-based recommendations, consensus-based 

recommendations and practice points.) This is an important first step in NHMRC’s guideline improvement 

agenda and is designed to ensure that NHMRC approval remains relevant to guidelines that are regularly 

revised and updated, and to support innovative approaches to publication. 

All NHMRC-approved guidelines are available through the national Clinical Practice Guidelines Portal 

(www.clinicalguidelines.gov.au). 

Target 2: Develop guidelines that address clinical, public and environmental 

health topics 


Develop and approve guidelines or health advice that addresses priority 

clinical, public and environmental health topics. 

Achieved 

In 2015–16, NHMRC began to develop health advice and guidelines on two topics. 

Water fluoridation 

NHMRC reviewed the evidence underpinning health advice on public water fluoridation, producing a draft 

information paper summarising these results. The information paper will provide a summary of the evidence 

on the health effects of water fluoridation, as well as an overview of the process by which the evidence was 

identified, critically appraised and interpreted by the Fluoride Reference Group. 

66 


Public consultation will be undertaken in the second half of 2016. Following public consultation, 

NHMRC’s advice on this issue will be considered. 

Infection prevention and control 

In 2016, NHMRC commenced work with the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care 

(ACSQHC) to update the Australian Guidelines for the Prevention and Control of Infection in Healthcare 

(2010). This review will update the recommendations within the guideline to reflect the latest evidence and 

practices (where appropriate). 

The Infection Control Guidelines Advisory Committee was established to ensure appropriate expertise 

throughout the review. 

NHMRC expects the update to be completed by late 2018. 

Target 3: Report on the quality of Australian clinical practice guidelines 


Report on the quality of Australian clinical practice guidelines through the 

national clinical practice guideline portal and dataset reports. 

Work 

ongoing 

The Clinical Practice Guidelines Portal is a single-access entry point to Australian clinical practice guidelines 

and provides links to current Australian guidelines developed by governments, professional colleges, 

specialty societies and non-government agencies. In December 2015, NHMRC launched a revised portal 

website with improved functions. The selection criteria for the inclusion of clinical practice guidelines on the 

portal have been updated to bring the portal up to date with similar international resources and ensure high 

quality guidelines continue to be available. The updated inclusion criteria apply to clinical practice guidelines 

with publication dates from 2015 onwards. 


Target 4: Progress a new guideline development standard and methodology 


Progress a new guideline development standard and methodology, 

including greater use of contemporary information technology platforms 

in collaboration with national and international agencies. 

Work 

ongoing 

During 2015–16, NHMRC worked with clinical practice guideline developers and the Synthesis and 

Translation of Research Evidence (SToRE) Advisory Group to prepare draft standards for guidelines. 

Consultation on the draft Standards for Guidelines was open to stakeholders from November 2015 to 

January 2016. The new Standards for Guidelines were prepared in order to update Australia’s Guideline 

Standards and bring them into line with similar standards internationally. The new standards will be the basis 

for NHMRC approval processes for guidelines into the future. In the next reporting period, NHMRC will 

proceed to develop a new handbook for guideline developers. The handbook will be a comprehensive online 

resource that will provide advice and guidance on how to develop a guideline to meet the new standards. 


67

Outcome 3: Develop public and environmental health and clinical advice 

NHMRC continues to maintain its leadership role in the development and dissemination of public and 

environmental health and clinical advice. In 2015–16, NHMRC began to update evidence-based health 

advice and guidelines on water fluoridation and infection prevention and control. The approval program for 

clinical practice guidelines developed by third party organisations which meet our standards also continues 

to be effective. Five evidence-based clinical practice guidelines developed by third party organisations were 

considered by Council and approved by the CEO. These guidelines can be accessed through the NHMRC’s 

Clinical Practice Guidelines Portal, a single-access entry point to Australian clinical practice guidelines. 

The portal itself was renewed, with improved functions. 


As part of its leadership role, NHMRC worked with clinical practice guideline developers to develop and 

release for public comment draft Standards for Guidelines. NHMRC also embarked on developing an 

online handbook to provide practical advice for guideline developers. This important work will be continue 

into 2016–17. 

68 


GOAL 4: REMOVE BARRIERS TO COMMERCIALISATION AND INNOVATION 

IN HEALTH 

Work with others to remove barriers to commercialisation and innovation 

in health and enhance NHMRC funding schemes and strategic projects to 

forge stronger links with industry. 



Target 1: Report on the number of grants awarded through the Development 

Grants scheme 


Report annually on the number of grants awarded each year through the 

Development Grants scheme and on the number of industry-focused 

Career Development fellowships awarded each year. 

Achieved 

Following ministerial announcement the number of grants awarded for each Career Development Fellowship 

(CDF) stream, including industry, is published on NHMRC’s website. 

Table 16 

Grants awarded for each Career Development Fellowship stream 

Career Development Fellowships stream Funded Amount 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander CDF 2 $838,360 


Clinical CDF 9 $3,743,472 

Industry CDF 2 $927,304 

Population Health CDF 11 $4,877,812 

RD Wright Biomedical CDF 31 $13,578,244 

Total 55 $23,965,192 

Target 2: Strengthen rules for competitive grant programs 


Strengthen rules for competitive grant programs to appropriately 

recognise industry relevant expertise or research by revising the NHMRC 

Funding Rules and related program documentation by November 2015, 

supporting implementation of the ‘Boosting the Commercial Returns from 

Research’ strategy. 

Achieved 

In 2015–16, the NHMRC Funding Rules were revised to promote the importance of recognising 

industry‐relevant experience. Section 6.1 - Recognising Applicants’ Industry-Relevant Expertise was added 

to the funding rules to promote and recognise industry experience and expertise. 

During the reporting period, NHMRC developed more information for applicants and peer reviewers 

on aspects of industry-relevant experience that should be included in an application, or considered in 

the assessment of an application. This also included updating briefing material for panel members, 

highlighting the need for panel members to appropriately recognise industry-relevant experience when 

assessing an application. 


69

Target 3: Identify opportunities for education of researchers in skills related to 

commercialisation 


Work with others to identify opportunities for education of researchers in 

skills related to commercialisation. 

Work 

ongoing 

The NHMRC will continue to work with the Health Innovation Advisory Committee on strategies to improve 

commercial literacy in the research sector. 

Target 4: Present a Marshall and Warren award for highly innovative Project 

Grants 



Continue to confer a Marshall and Warren award annually for highly 

innovative Project Grants, in support of building an innovative 

health industry. 

Achieved 

The Marshall and Warren Award is given to the applicant with the most highly innovative and potentially 

transformative Project Grant application. In 2015, the award was presented to Professor Peter Thompson from 

the University of Western Australia at the NHMRC Research Excellence Awards dinner. Professor Thompson 

and his team will follow up on the promising results of a clinical trial to confirm whether a low cost drug 

can reduce incidents that may damage the heart muscle in patients with stable coronary heart disease. 

This follow‐up study will involve around 5,000 participants, up from around 500 in the earlier trial. 

The award is named after Nobel Laureates Professors Barry Marshall and Robin Warren, who were awarded 

the 2005 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their discovery of the bacterium Helicobacter pylori and 

its role in gastritis and peptic ulcer disease. 

Target 5: Establish the Health Innovation Advisory Committee 


Establish the Health Innovation Advisory Committee and its work plan on 

advice from Council. 

Work 

ongoing 

The Minister for Health established the Health Innovation Advisory Committee (HIAC) on 29 June 2015. 

The HIAC, which met three times in the reporting period, aims to develop strategies to improve commercial 

literacy in the research sector and promote better collaboration between the health and medical research 

and commercial sectors. It will also consider and advise on ways to further the development and uptake of 

innovative technologies and practices to improve human health, including the health of Aboriginal and Torres 

Strait Islander peoples. 

Target 6: Report on the proportion of the MREA budget committed to research 

translation 


Report on the proportion of the total annual MREA budget committed to 

research translation focused funding programs. 

Achieved 

As detailed in the NHMRC Corporate Plan 2015-2016, NHMRC will support the translation of health and 

medical research into clinical practice, policy and health systems and the effective commercialisation of 

research discoveries. A full breakdown of funding commitments to research translation is available at Target 

1: Support translation-related research activities through a range of funding schemes. 

70 


Table 17 

NHMRC commitments to research translation focussed funding programs 

Grant purpose 

Amount 

Build Capacity $280,934,020 

Create Knowledge $393,280,485 

Translate Research $191,474,992 

Total $865,689,498 

Target 7: Report on the percentage of Project Grants with an innovation category 

score of five or more 


Report annually on the percentage of Project Grants awarded each year 

with a ‘significance and/or innovation’ category score of five or more, to 

highlight the proportion of grants that foster innovation. 

Achieved 

Throughout the reporting period a total of 99 per cent of Project Grants were awarded a ‘significance and/or 

innovation’ category score of five or more (out of a maximum of seven). 

Outcome 4: Remove barriers to commercialisation and innovation in health 


The Health Innovation Advisory Committee (HIAC) developed its work plan and assisted NHMRC to revise 

policies and processes to make it easier for researchers to move flexibly between industry and academia. 

HIACs outcomes over 2015–16 include providing advice to the CEO on: 

• the development of a Guide to Evaluating Industry-Relevant Experience to give context to industry/ 

commercial experiences and achievements so that peer reviewers are better equipped to evaluate 

track record 

• strengthening assessment criteria to better recognise and assess industry-related research 

achievements and experience 

• including a Recognising Applicants’ Industry-Relevant Expertise section in the 2016 NHMRC 

Funding Rules. 

Through HIAC, NHMRC has developed relationships with other organisations working to remove barriers to 

commercialisation, including Innovation Australia and the Medical Technologies and Pharmaceuticals Industry 

Growth Centre, MTP Connect. HIAC continues to advise the CEO on how to improve commercial literacy 

and education opportunities for the research sector. 


71

GOAL 5: EXPEDITING CLINICAL TRIALS REFORMS 

Implement the Government’s initiatives of Expediting Clinical Trials 

Reforms and Simplified and Consistent Health and Medical Research, 

including increasing the capability of the academic clinical trial workforce 

through the development of education and training programs and a fully 

functional clinical trials web portal 




The Australian Government will continue to explore a nationally consistent 

approach to the upfront site approval of clinical trials. This approach will 

reduce complexity and accelerate the clinical trials review process in both 

the public and private health sectors. In 2015–16, the NHMRC will publish 

a nationally consistent good practice model for research governance of 

clinical trials, which will be supported by the development of an improved 

ethics application form. 


Statement— 




Target 1: Streamline ethical review and research governance processes for 

clinical trials 


Streamline ethical review and research governance processes for 

clinical trials. 

Portfolio 

Budget 

Statement 

• Streamline ethical review and research governance processes for 


• Implement the Government’s initiatives of Simplified and Consistent 

Health and Medical Research and Accelerating Clinical Trials Reforms. 

Achieved 

In July 2015, as part of the initiative to have quicker and more efficient research governance authorisation, 

NHMRC launched the Good Practice Process for Site Assessment and Authorisation Phases of Clinical 

Trial Research Governance. The process was developed and finalised, following extensive stakeholder 

consultation, by the NHMRC’s Research Governance Working Group. This group has broad representation 

from clinical trial sites, clinical trial sponsors and state and territory health departments. 

The process aims to streamline the site assessment and site authorisation of clinical trials by: 

• outlining a set of principles and critical success factors for site assessment and authorisation 

• detailing a set of planning and preparation activities that can make a site more responsive to 

commencing clinical trials 

• proposing a streamlined workflow for site assessment and authorisation. 

As at 30 June 2016, NHMRC was piloting the process in 16 clinical trial sites across seven states 

and territories. 

72 


Target 2: Improve processes for clinical trials 


Continue to: 

• develop and launch an improved ethics application form 

• conduct pilot studies to collect data on a good practice research 

governance process for clinical trials 

• develop a market driven approach to demonstrate quality, safety, 

transparency and efficiency of clinical trials 

• work with stakeholders to develop contemporary guidance around 

safety monitoring and reporting requirements for clinical trials 

• work to develop a fully functional clinical trials web portal. 

During 2015–16, the NHMRC continued working to streamline processes for clinical trials by: 

Work 

ongoing 

• developing the ethics application form, with beta-testing ongoing as at 30 June 2016 (the form will be 

launched in October 2016) 

• completing the first phase of pilot studies to collect data on a good practice research governance 

process for clinical trials 

• developing the Clinical Trials Ready initiative, which will be supported by an expert advisory committee 

• developing a draft revision of the Australian Health Ethics Committee position statement on safety 

monitoring and reporting requirements for clinical trials (the revision will be completed by October 2016). 

NHMRC also began developing a fully functional clinical trials web portal. On International Clinical Trials 

Day (20 May 2016), the Minister for Health announced enhancements to the site, including the addition of 

subscription notification functionality. 


Outcome 5: Expediting clinical trials reforms 

In 2015–16, NHMRC has continued to work towards simplified and streamlined ethics review, 

research governance approval and clinical trial oversight processes. A number of key achievements have 

occurred during this time. 

The Good Practice Process for Site Assessment and Authorisation Phases of Clinical Trial Research 

Governance for streamlined site assessment and authorisation of clinical trials realised significant success. 

Evidence from the piloting of the process in 16 sites has demonstrated that, on average, more than 100 

days can be saved in the time taken for clinical trial commencement. While there was a small resource 

cost, this time saving can help to make Australia more competitive as a destination in which to conduct 


In order to support streamlined research governance authorisation, NHMRC has also been working to 

develop a streamlined ethics application. This form, the human research ethics application (HREA), has been 

developed using a contemporary IT platform which generates a bespoke application whose questions are 

relevant only to the type of research that is being conducted. The HREA is currently in a beta test phase. It is 

anticipated that, following incorporation of comments on the form, it will be launched in October 2016. 

NHMRC has also simplified the process for safety monitoring and reporting of clinical trials by developing, 

in conjunction with the Therapeutic Goods Administration, revised guidance for reporting on clinical trials that 

involve medicines and medical devices. This will be published in October 2016. 


73

INTEGRITY 

Maintain a strong integrity framework for research and guideline development, underpinning rigorous 

research and relevant and accurate guidelines WORKING and promoting TO BUILD community A HEALTHY trust. AUSTRALIA 

Figure 9 


NHMRC strategy – integrity 

Investment 







Translation 

Integrity 

Investment 

Translation 

Integrity 










a strong integrity framework for research and guideline 



development, accurate guidelines underpinning and promoting community rigorous trust research and relevant and 














74 


GOAL 1: RETAIN HIGH ETHICAL STANDARDS IN HEALTH AND 

MEDICAL RESEARCH 

Retain high ethical standards in health and medical research and health 

care and promote trust in research. 

NHMRC will continue to encourage the uptake of the national approach to 

single ethical review within universities and private hospitals. 




Medical Research Program 

Objectives 

Target 1: Promote adherence to agreed standards in ethics and the conduct 

of research 


Work in close partnership with other organisations, including the 

Australian Research Council, universities and the research community, 

to promote adherence to agreed standards in ethics and the conduct 

of research. 

Work 

ongoing 

NHMRC is continually engaged with the research community and key organisations supporting this 

community, providing advice, participating in conferences and workshops, seeking input on revisions to 

guidelines and working collaboratively to develop and review standards and support their implementation. 


Target 2: Work towards national adoption of the National Approach to Single 

Ethical Review 


Portfolio 

Budget 

Statement 

Work towards national adoption of the National Approach to Single Ethical 

Review (formerly known as HoMER). 

• National adoption of the National Approach to Single Ethical Review 

initiative (formerly known as HoMER). 

• Monitor the number of human research ethics committees that 

participate in the National Certifications Scheme Institutional 

Processes. 

Work 

ongoing 

NHMRC is reviewing the National Certification Scheme to ensure it continues to meet community 

expectations and that as many institutions as possible can use it. This will help to increase adoption of the 

National Approach to Single Ethical Review of Multi-Centre Research. 

The NHMRC established the national approach, formally known as the Harmonisation of Multi-Centre Ethical 

Review (HoMER), in order to recognise a single ethical and scientific review of multi-centre human research 

within and/or across Australian jurisdictions. 

In Australian research institutions, human research ethics committees (HRECs) review research proposals 

involving human participants and assess their conformity with the requirements of the National Statement 

on Ethical Conduct in Human Research and other requirements before approving them. 

Throughout the reporting period, NHMRC developed and published the Human Research Ethics Portal 

(HREP) and a variety of tools and guidance material to support the national approach. These include the 

National Certification Scheme, standardised participant information and consent forms, committee template 

letters, and information on the roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders in the process, 


75

including guidance on research governance and monitoring of human research. The tools and guidance 

material apply to all human research and can be adopted and implemented by institutions in the publicly 

funded health sector, universities and private hospitals and research institutions. 

The NHMRC’s National Certification Scheme supports a single ethical review for multi-centre research. 

The certification is recognised in all states and territories. Institutions with certified ethical review processes 

may accept research proposals from any jurisdiction and any institution. NHMRC continues to monitor the 

number of HRECs that participate in the National Certification Scheme. At this time, there are 45 certified 

institutions, representing 49 committees. 


Target 3: Aim for 100 per cent of institutions to maintain certification 

requirements 


Portfolio 

Budget 

Statement 

Aim for 100 per cent of institutions to maintain certification requirements, 

determined by monitoring the number of Human Research Ethics 

Committees participating in the NHMRC National Certification Scheme. 

100 per cent of institutions maintaining certification requirements. 

Achieved 

In 2015–16, a review of the National Certification Scheme, a cornerstone of the National Approach to Single 

Ethical Review (the National Approach), was undertaken. Preliminary findings from the consultation indicate 

that there is strong support for continuation of the scheme. NHMRC will consider the findings of the 

consultation and implement any improvements to the National Certification Scheme in 2016–17. 

All currently certified institutions are being assessed against the initial certification criteria, prior to 

extension of their certification period. This will help to ensure that these institutions continue to meet the 

expected standards. 

For the 2014 reporting period, 100 per cent of institutions whose ethics review processes were certified as 

part of the National Certification Scheme declared that they met certification requirements. 

Outcome 1: Retain high ethical standards in health and medical research 

In 2015–16, a review of the National Certification Scheme was undertaken. NHMRC will consider the 

findings of the consultation and implement any improvements to the National Certification Scheme 

in 2016–17. 

Though the National Approach can be utilised for all human research, public hospitals comprise the majority 

of entities that are certified. In order to become truly national, NHMRC will work with universities to 

determine barriers to the uptake of the National Approach. In addition, NHMRC will continue to work with all 

stakeholders to improve the acceptance of single ethics review conducted in private and Catholic hospitals 

and institutions. 

Currently, 100 per cent of institutions certified by NHMRC are maintaining certification requirements. 

Monitoring of this status will be completed by December 2016. 

76 


GOAL 2: STRENGTHEN THE PROCESS FOR MANAGING RESEARCH 

MISCONDUCT 

Strengthen the process for managing research misconduct and raise 

awareness of issues of ethics and integrity in the research sector. 



NHMRC promotes high quality ethical standards in research by ensuring 

that key human research guidelines, the National Statement on Ethical 

Conduct in Human Research 2007 (the National Statement), and codes, 

such as the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research 

2007 (the Code) remain up-to-date and reflect best practice in the area. 

In 2015–16, the rolling review of the National Statement will focus on a 

review of Section 3 (Ethical considerations specific to research methods 

or fields) and will include a review of current advice on research involving 

human genetics and clinical trials. The Code will also be reviewed in 

conjunction with the university and research sectors. 


Statement— 

Target 1: Prevent research misconduct and investigate complaints 





Work with administering institutions to prevent research misconduct and 

investigate complaints. 

Work 

ongoing 


The Australian Research Integrity Committee (ARIC) is jointly supported by NHMRC and the Australian 

Research Council (ARC). The committee provides a review system of institutional processes to respond 

to allegations of research misconduct. This system is intended to ensure that institutions investigate such 

allegations and observe proper process in doing so. The committee contributes to quality assurance and 

public confidence regarding the integrity of Australia’s research effort. Specifically, the committee: 

• reviews the process by which a nominated institution has managed an allegation of research misconduct 

• provides findings and, where relevant, recommendations to the ARC and/or NHMRC 

• publishes de-identified information on its activities at least annually. 

The committee considers whether the institution’s response to the allegation of research misconduct was 

consistent with the framework outlined in the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research and 

with the institution’s policies and procedures for investigating allegations of research misconduct. 

In late 2013, the ARC and NHMRC reappointed all committee members for a further three years (2014–2017). 

Target 2: Lead revision of the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of 

Research, 2007 


Lead revision of the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct 

of Research, 2007 to provide stronger guidance and encourage 

harmonisation of research integrity processes across the sector. 

Work 

ongoing 

NHMRC, in partnership with the Australian Research Council and Universities Australia is currently reviewing 

the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research, 2007. The review aims to promote the 

prevention of research misconduct and support institutions in effectively managing complaints about 

research integrity. When cases of research misconduct arise, a framework for NHMRC’s response to such 


77

incidents is set out in the NHMRC policy on misconduct related to NHMRC funding. This is supported by the 

funding agreement NHMRC has with administering institutions. 

The code is being reviewed to ensure it remains practical and relevant to research practice. The review 

process involves three key steps: targeted consultation; public consultation; and approval and release of the 

final revised code. 

The redrafted code will be supported by better practice guides, which will contain detailed guidance for 

organisations on implementation. The review is being assisted by the Code Review Committee and the 

Better Practice Guides Working Group. In 2015–16, an external contractor developed the first better practice 

guide, which is about managing allegations of breaches of the code. 


Target 3: Undertake public consultation on a draft of the Australian Code for the 

Responsible Conduct of Research, 2007 


Undertake public consultation on a draft of the Australian Code for the 

Responsible Conduct of Research, 2007. 

Work 

ongoing 

Targeted consultation on a revised draft of the code was undertaken in August 2015, with around 

100 organisations invited to provide feedback. The review received 48 submissions from universities, 

government agencies and research bodies, medical research institutes and other representative 

organisations. Feedback from this process, as well as advice received from the Code Review Committee, 

led to a significant re-drafting of the code into a principles-based document. 

The draft code is more streamlined and comprises eight principles of responsible research conduct and 

31 responsibilities for institutions and researchers. It is expected to be released for public consultation 

during August–September 2016, together with the Better Practice Guide on Managing Allegations of 

Breaches to the Code. 

Target 4: Revise the NHMRC policy on misconduct related to 

NHMRC-funded research 


Revise and release the NHMRC policy on misconduct related to 

NHMRC‐funded research. 

Work 

ongoing 

In August 2015, NHMRC conducted targeted consultation on its draft policy on misconduct related to 

NHMRC funding. To enable the NHMRC to incorporate the feedback received, and to consult further on key 

changes, it is anticipated that a fully revised policy will not be released until the second half of 2016. In the 

interim, to ensure that the reporting and management of allegations of research misconduct are managed 

appropriately, organisations will continue to be covered under the current 2010 policy on misconduct, 

which has had a limited update to ensure its relevancy. 

To ensure interim coverage for the reporting and management of allegations of research misconduct, 

the existing NHMRC Policy on Actions to be Taken in Response to Research Misconduct Involving NHMRC 

Funding, 2010 has been updated. 

78 


Outcome 2: Strengthen the process for managing research misconduct 

Development of guidelines about research integrity matters and consideration of specific cases of research 

misconduct are complex in nature. These areas frequently involve highly sensitive issues and require 

engagement and consultation with a large number of key stakeholders, including government agencies, 

research organisations and researchers, to ensure that policies and advice are soundly-based and receive 

support from the research sector. 

Given these complexities, the NHMRC has made substantial progress toward supporting high ethical 

standards in health and medical research. 

The Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research, 2007 has undergone significant revision 

based on advice from two expert committees and extensive consultation with research organisations. 

The principles-based document and supporting better practice guides will more clearly identify the standards 

expected of Australian research, and will provide more practical guidance that will promote compliance due 

to increased flexibility in implementation. 

Substantial progress was made during 2015–16 on the ongoing revision of NHMRC’s policy on misconduct 

related to NHMRC-funded research. Interim updates to the existing policy provided an effective framework 

for the reporting and management of allegations of research misconduct while feedback from targeted 

consultation with the research sector continues to be considered and incorporated into a fully revised policy. 



79

GOAL 3: CONTINUE REVIEW OF RESEARCH ETHICS STANDARDS AND 

GUIDELINES 

Continue review of research ethics standards and guidelines. 

NHMRC will also revise Part B of the Ethical Guidelines on the use of 

Assisted Reproductive Technology in Clinical Practice and Research June 

2007 and commence a review of two Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander 

research ethics guidelines. Work will continue on developing the ethical 

guidelines for organ transplantation from deceased donors. 




Statement— 





Target 1: Ensure statements, codes and guidelines remain up-to-date and reflect 

best practice 


Ensure statements, codes and guidelines remain up-to-date and reflect 

best practice. 

National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research 

Work 

ongoing 

A strategy and project plan for review of selected provisions, chapters or sections of the National Statement 

on Ethical Conduct in Human Research will be developed in the third calendar quarter of 2016 to inform 

the ‘rolling review’ of the document in 2017 and beyond. This review will begin after public consultation on 

Section 3 of the National Statement has been completed. 

Policy on Care and Use of Non-Human Primates for Scientific Purposes 

In 2015–16, a comprehensive review of the Policy on the Care and Use of Non-Human Primates for Scientific 

Purposes (2003) was completed to ensure the humane and ethical use of non-human primates in research. 

This is highly sensitive and raises special ethical and welfare issues. 

The review was overseen by NHMRC’s Animal Welfare Committee, with advice from an expert NHMRC 

working committee. Public consultation on the draft Principles and Guidelines for the Care and use of 

Non-Human Primates for Scientific Purposes was undertaken in March to May 2015. Release of the final 

guideline is expected in the second half of 2016. 

Target 2: Review Section 3 of the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in 

Human Research 


Complete review of Section 3 of the National Statement on Ethical 

Conduct in Human Research, 2007. 

Work 

ongoing 

Consistent with the triennial work plan, NHMRC will undertake public consultation on Section 3 of the 

National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research 2007 in late 2016. The review of this section is 

expected to be completed in early 2017. 

80 


Target 3: Review Ethical Guidelines on the Use of Assisted Reproductive 

Technology in Clinical Practice and Research 


Complete review of Ethical guidelines on the Use of Assisted 

Reproductive Technology in clinical practice and research, June 2007. 

Work 

ongoing 

The Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Working Committee is reviewing Part B of the Ethical 

Guidelines on the Use of Assisted Reproductive Technology in clinical practice and research, overseen by the 

Australian Health Ethics Committee (AHEC). 

In 2015–16, after consolidating and incorporating feedback from an initial consultation in 2014, the working 

committee released the draft ethical guidelines for public consultation. Over 180 submissions were received. 

Once the review has been completed, submissions, where permission has been granted, will be publicly 

available from NHMRC’s website. The review will be released following consideration by the AHEC and the 

Council of NHMRC. 

Target 4: Complete the Ethical Guidelines for Organ Transplantation from 

Deceased Donors 


Complete the Ethical Guidelines for Organ Transplantation from 

Deceased Donors. 

Achieved 


In 2015–16, NHMRC’s Australian Health Ethics Committee developed ethical guidelines for organ 

transplantation eligibility and allocation in partnership with the Organ and Tissue Authority (OTA) and the 

Transplantation Society of Australia and New Zealand (TSANZ). The guidelines set the framework for ethical 

practice in relation to organ transplantation from deceased donors. 

This partnership brought together NHMRC’s expertise in developing ethical guidelines, TSANZ’s clinical 

input and expertise and OTA’s governance and organ donation policy expertise. An Expert Advisory Group 

was established to provide advice to the Australian Health Ethics Committee on the development of 

the guidelines. 

Public consultation on the draft guidelines was undertaken from January to March 2015, and the final 

document was released on 11 April 2016. 

Target 5: Undertake public consultation on the development of Aboriginal and 

Torres Strait Islander Research Ethics Guidelines 


Undertake public consultation on the development of Aboriginal and 

Torres Strait Islander Research Ethics Guidelines. 

Work 

ongoing 

The Indigenous Research Ethics Guidelines (IREG) Review Working Committee is undertaking the review of 

Values and Ethics: Guidelines for Ethical Conduct in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research (2003) and 

Keeping Research on Track: A guide for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples about health research 

ethics (2005). 

The IREG committee and NHMRC have developed a revised draft, which combines the values and ethics 

document and the Keeping Research on Track document. Public consultation is anticipated to commence in 

the second half of 2016. 


81

Outcome 3: Continue review of research ethics standards and guidelines 


Significant progress has been achieved with the review of research ethics standards and guidelines, many of 

which are associated with highly sensitive and complex issues. This is particularly the case for the ethical 

guidelines for assisted reproductive technology in clinical practice, and for research involving Aboriginal and 

Torres Strait Islander peoples. Review of these guidelines has been managed to ensure that all relevant 

issues are being considered in a comprehensive and sensitive manner. The inclusion of case studies in 

several ethical guidelines has been strongly supported by stakeholders as an effective mechanism to clarify 

complex issues. The completion of the ethical guidelines for organ transplantation from deceased donors 

within the project timeframes was the outcome of a successful collaboration between NHMRC and the 

Organ and Tissue Authority. Ensuring the provision of up-to-date principles and best practice guidance 

in both human and animal research is being achieved through the ongoing revision of Section 3 of the 

National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research, and the development of guidance for research 

involving non-human primates. The review of these guidelines will effectively address the needs identified by 

the sectors. 

82 


GOAL 4: ADMINISTER THE RESEARCH INVOLVING HUMAN EMBRYOS ACT 2002 

AND THE PROHIBITION OF HUMAN CLONING FOR REPRODUCTION ACT 2002 

Administer the Research Involving Human Embryos Act 2002 and the 

Prohibition of Human Cloning for Reproduction Act 2002. 

NHMRC will continue to administer the Research Involving Human 

Embryos Act 2002 (RIHE Act) and the Prohibition of Human Cloning for 

Reproduction Act 2002 (PHCR Act). These Acts prohibit certain practices, 

including human cloning for reproduction, and restrict other practices 

relating to reproductive technology and research. 




Statement— 




Target 1: Stakeholders demonstrate continued understanding of regulatory 

requirements 



Statement 

Aim for stakeholders to demonstrate continued understanding of 

regulatory requirements as measured by NHMRC assessment of activity 

reports and inspection outcomes. 

• Use risk-based approaches to target compliance activities 

related to RIHE Act and PHCR Act and monitor performance and 

regulatory outcomes. 

• Stakeholders demonstrate increased understanding of regulatory 

requirements as measured by NHMRC assessment of activity reports 

and inspection outcomes. 

Work 

ongoing 


The NHMRC has responsibility for monitoring compliance and investigating potential non-compliance with 

the RIHE Act and the PHCR Act. 

The six-monthly reports received from licence holders in September and March demonstrate compliance 

with regulatory requirements. Monitoring inspections of five licences and final inspections of three licences 

undertaken during the reporting period indicated that the licence holders understood and complied with the 

conditions of their licences. 

NHMRC will continue to monitor compliance with these Acts. 

Target 2: Implement new processes to decrease the burden of red tape on businesses 


Implement new processes to decrease the burden of red tape on 

businesses. 

Work 

ongoing 

In 2015–16, the Embryo Research Licensing Committee approved new processes that allow licence 

holders to implement some changes to their protocols and documents without requiring prior approval 

from the committee. This will reduce the time between identifying and implementing required changes. 

The committee will monitor the effect of these processes and make amendments as required. 

Outcome 4: Administer the Research Involving Human Embryos Act 2002 and the 

Prohibition of Human Cloning for Reproduction Act 2002 

During 2015–16 the Embryo Research Licensing Committee has fulfilled its functions, and through NHMRC, 

continued to administer the legislation. Stakeholders indicated that they are satisfied with NHMRC’s advice 

and responsiveness. 


83

Michael, Year 1

PART 3 

OPERATING ENVIRONMENT 

Legislative Framework 86 

Corporate Governance 87 

External Scrutiny 93 

Compliance and Assurance 94 

Research Integrity 98 

Accountability 99 

Correction of material errors in previous Annual Report 105 


NHMRC’s robust corporate governance and compliance framework provide rigour and discipline 

to the way in which NHMRC delivers its work. It ensures transparent, ethical and accountable 

decision‐making, and helps manage risk and stakeholder relations. 

LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK 

PART 3 operating environment 

The National Health and Medical Research Council Act 1992 (NHMRC Act) defines NHMRC as the Chief 

Executive Officer (CEO), the Council, committees and employees (who comprise the Office of NHMRC). 

The CEO, Council and Principal Committees are appointed by the responsible Minister. 

The Minister provides guidance on NHMRC’s strategic priorities. The CEO is responsible to the Minister 

under the Public Service Act 1999, the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013, and the 

NHMRC Act. 

The CEO’s functions are prescribed by section 7 of the NHMRC Act as: 

• inquire into, and issue guidelines and advise the community on matters relating to: 

–– 

the improvement of health 

–– 

the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease 

–– 

the provision of health care 

–– 

public health research and medical research 

–– 

ethical issues relating to health. 

• advise and make recommendations to the Australian Government, the states and the territories on the 

matters referred to above 

• make recommendations to the Minister about expenditure on: 

–– 

public health research and training 

–– 

medical research and training. 

NHMRC is an independent statutory authority. It has statutory obligations under the Prohibition of Human 

Cloning for Reproduction Act 2002 and the Research Involving Human Embryos Act 2002. 

86 


CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 

Governance bodies form a key part of NHMRC’s assurance processes. These include the Council of NHMRC 

and the following Principal Committees: 

• Research Committee (RC) 

• Australian Health Ethics Committee (AHEC) 

• Health Innovation Advisory Committee (HIAC) 

• Health Translation Advisory Committee (HTAC). 

These committees enable NHMRC to work collaboratively with the research community to ensure desired 

results are achieved. In addition to statutory obligations under the NHMRC Act, NHMRC is accountable 

to Commonwealth bodies including the Commonwealth Ombudsman, the Australian Public Service 

Commission, the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner, the Australian Commission for Law 

Enforcement Integrity and the Australian National Audit Office. 

The CEO is advised and supported by the Council of NHMRC and assisted by a number of Principal 

Committees. The CEO, the Council and the Principal Committees are appointed by the Minister for Health. 

NHMRC operates on a triennium basis, with the Council and Principal Committees re-appointed every three 

years. The last triennium concluded in June 2015, and a new Council and new Principal Committees have 

been appointed for the current triennium, which will run until June 2018. 


Figure 10 

NHMRC governance structure 

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER 

Chair of Council/Council 

Research Committee 

Australian Health Ethics Committee 

Health Innovation Advisory Committee 

Office of the NHMRC 

Health Translation Advisory Committee 

Embryo Research Licensing Committee 


87

THE COUNCIL OF NHMRC 

The Council of NHMRC is established under section 20 of the NHMRC Act. It provides advice to the CEO 

and performs any other functions conferred by the Minister or legislation. The Council advises the CEO on 

a wide range of matters relating to public health research and medical research, public health and clinical 

practice, ethics in health and in research involving humans and animals, research integrity, and workforce 

training and development. 

The functions of the Council are to: 

• provide advice to the CEO in relation to the performance of his or her function 


• perform any other function conferred on the Council in writing by the Minister after consulting with 

the CEO 

• perform any other function conferred on the Council by the NHMRC Act, the regulations or any 

other law. 

The Council met three times throughout the reporting period: 

First Council meeting for the 2015–18 triennium (205th Session) – 22–23 September 2015 

Members identified key strategic issues as well as the key challenges facing the Council over the 

coming triennium. 

Second Council meeting – 1 December 2015 (206th Session) 

Items for discussion included the Structural Review of NHMRC’s Grant Program and MREA 

funding recommendations. 

Third Council meeting – 10 March 2016 (207th Session) 

The items for discussion included: 

• annual corporate plan 

• strategic framework for the identification and prioritisation of targeted calls for research 

• NHMRC International Engagement Strategy 

• approval of the draft Patient Blood Management Guidelines: Module 6 – Neonatal and Paediatrics 

• approval of Managing Individual Exposure to Lead in Australia – A Guide for Health Practitioners 

• approval of the Ethical Guidelines for Organ Transplantation from Deceased Donors. 

Membership of the Council 

Council members are appointed under section 41 (1) of the NHMRC Act for a triennium (three years). 

A new Council was appointed for the 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2018 triennium. 

The Council of NHMRC consists of: 

• the Chair 

• the Chairs of the Principal Committees 

• the Chief Medical Officer for the Australian Government 

88 


• the Chief Medical Officer or the Chief Health Officer for each state and territory 

• an expert in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health needs 

• a person with expertise in consumer issues 

• at least six, but no more than 11, members with relevant expertise as outlined in the NHMRC Act. 

The biographies of Council members are in Appendix 2. 

PRINCIPAL COMMITTEES 

NHMRC Principal Committees are established under section 35 of the NHMRC Act. Each Principal 

Committee reports to the Council. 

For the reporting period 2015–16, NHMRC has the following five Principal Committees: 

• Research Committee (required under the NHMRC Act) 

• Australian Health Ethics Committee (required under the NHMRC Act) 

• Embryo Research Licensing Committee (required under the Research Involving Human 

Embryos Act 2002) 

• Health Translation Advisory Committee 

• Health Innovation Advisory Committee. 

The terms of reference for the Principal Committees were gazetted by the Minister for Health on 

29 June 2015. 



The Research Committee (RC) covers the spectrum of health and medical research, including public health. 

It recommends the award of grants on the basis of scientific quality as judged by peer review across health, 

medical and public health research. It also advises on research support through a variety of mechanisms, 

including support for individual research projects, broad programs of research, training awards and 

fellowships and special research units. 

The functions of RC, as set out in section 35 (2) of the NHMRC Act, are: 

• to advise and make recommendation to the Council on the application of the Medical Research 

Endowment Account (MREA) 

• to monitor the use of assistance provided from the MREA 

• to advise the Council on matters relating to medical research and public health research, including the 

quality and scope of such research in Australia 

• such other functions as the Minister from time to time determines in writing after consulting with 

the CEO 

• any other function conferred on the Committee by the NHMRC Act, the regulation or any other law. 

During 2015–16, RC’s major activities included: 

• providing advice to the Council on funding expenditure 


89

• advising the CEO on strategic matters including: 

–– 

developing a framework for investing in priority areas 

–– 

the NHMRC International Engagement Strategy 

–– 

Structural Review of NHMRC’s Grant Program 

–– 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health 

–– 

women in health science. 

A full list of Research Committee members is available at Appendix 3. 



The composition of the Australian Health Ethics Committee (AHEC) is specified in the NHMRC Act. 

Members draw on expertise in philosophy, the ethics of medical research, public health and social science 

research, clinical medical practice and nursing, disability, law, religion and health consumer issues. 

Under section 36(2) of the NHMRC Act, AHEC’s membership must include individuals who, collectively, 

have membership of all the other Principal Committees. 

The functions of the AHEC, as set out in section 35(3) of the NHMRC Act, are: 

• to advise the Council on the ethical issues relating to health 

• to develop and give the Council human research guidelines under subsection 10(2) of the NHMRC Act 

• any other function conferred on the Committee in writing by the Minister after consulting the CEO 

• any other functions conferred on the Committee by the NHMRC Act, the regulations or any other law. 

During 2015–16, AHEC’s major activities included: 

• review of Section 3 of the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research, 2007 

(National Statement) 

• development of the draft ethical guidelines for animal-to-human xenotransplantation trials, with public 

consultation on the draft Chapter 3.6 of the National Statement conducted for the period 27 April 2016 

to 8 June 2016 

• review of ethical guidelines for research involving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples 

• review of Part B of the Ethical Guidelines for the Use of Assisted Reproductive Technology in Clinical 

Practice and Research, 2007, with public consultation on the draft revised guidelines conducted for the 

period 23 July 2015 to 17 September 2015 

• finalisation of the Ethical Guidelines for Organ Transplantation From Deceased Donors following public 

consultation in early 2015, with release of the guidelines on 11 April 2016. 

A full list of AHEC members is available at Appendix 4. 


The NHMRC Embryo Research Licensing Committee (ERLC) administers the Prohibition of Human Cloning 

for Reproduction Act 2002 (PHCR Act) and the Research Involving Human Embryos Act 2002 (RIHE Act). 

These acts regulate research activities that use human embryos created by assisted reproductive technology 

or other means. There are strong penalties for noncompliance. The Acts also prohibit human cloning for 

reproductive purposes. 

90 


The ERLC assesses applications for licences to conduct research involving human embryos. Licences can 

only be issued if the proposed research complies with the legislation. The Committee is also responsible 

for monitoring compliance with the legislation and licence conditions. If necessary, the Committee can take 

enforcement action, including cancelling or suspending licences. 

During 2015–16, the committee met three times. It considered 48 applications to vary existing licences. 

Of these 43 variations were approved and five variations are under consideration. Three licences expired 

during the reporting period. Seven licences were current at 30 June 2016. 

Every six months ERLC is required by section 19 of the RIHE Act to table a report in Parliament describing 

its activities. The report includes information about licences issued under the RIHE Act. The report for 

1 March 2015 to 31 August 2015 was tabled on 30 March 2016. The report for 1 September 2015 to 

29 February 2016 will be tabled after the end of the caretaker period. All reports are available from the 

NHMRC website. 

Monitoring and enforcing compliance with the PHCR Act and the RIHE Act 

NHMRC is committed to ensuring that individuals and licence-holder organisations comply with the RIHE 

and PHCR Acts. Under the legislation, the Chair of the ERLC appoints inspectors who conduct a range 

of monitoring and compliance activities. During 2015–16 these inspectors conducted nine inspections to 

ensure compliance with licence conditions and provided information to prospective licence holders and other 

stakeholders about compliance with the legislation. 


Table 18 Inspections undertaken by the ERLC under the RIHE Act and PHCR Act 2015–16: 

Licence holder Licence Number Inspection type Inspection date 

Monash IVF 309722 Monitoring 19 November 2015 

Genea Ltd 309712 Final 3 December 2015 



Genea Ltd 309703 Monitoring 19 May 2016 



Genea Ltd Site 19 May 2016 

Melbourne IVF Pty Ltd 309723 Monitoring 26 May 2016 

A full list of ERLC members is available at Appendix 5. 


The Health Translation Advisory Committee (HTAC) advises the CEO and Council of NHMRC on opportunities 

to improve health outcomes in areas including clinical care, public, population and environmental health, 

communicable diseases and prevention of illness through effective translation of research into health care 

and clinical practice. These include: 


91

• major challenges, current issues and trends in health and health care, including those specific to 


• priorities and strategies to address these challenges 

• strategies to promote research translation into practice and policy 

• promoting dissemination and implementation of research findings and NHMRC-issued guidelines 

• any other matter referred to it by the CEO. 

During the 2015–18 triennium the HTAC is providing advice on: 

• NHMRC’s role in improving the clinical trials environment in Australia 

• NHMRC’s data strategy 


• measuring the impact of NHMRC-funded research 

• promoting implementation research as part of a NHMRC research translation strategy 

• importantly, specific advice on NHMRC’s research translation activities in Indigenous health. 

A full list of HTAC members is available at Appendix 6. 


The Health Innovation Advisory Committee (HIAC) advises the CEO and the Council on current and emerging 

issues related to the development, commercialisation and uptake of innovative technologies and practices 

arising from health and medical research. These include: 

• strategies to foster the development and uptake of innovative technologies and practices to improve 

human health, including the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples 

• strategies to promote collaboration between the health and medical research and commercial sectors 

• creating a culture of commercialisation for the translation of research into health outcomes 

• any other matter referred by the CEO. 

During the 2015–18 triennium, HIAC is focussing on developing strategies to improve commercial literacy 

in the research sector and promote better collaboration between the health and medical research and 

commercial sectors. It will also consider and advise on ways to further the development and uptake of 

innovative technologies and practices to improve human health, including the health of Aboriginal and Torres 

Strait Islander peoples. 

A full list of HIAC members is available at Appendix 7. 

NHMRC MEMBERSHIP ON MINISTERIAL ADVISORY COMMITTEES 

The NHMRC CEO has been appointed by the relevant Minister to the following Ministerial 

Advisory Committees: 

• Australian Medical Research Advisory Board 

• National Research Infrastructure Roadmap Expert Working Group 

• Engagement and Impact Steering Committee. 

92 


EXTERNAL SCRUTINY 

JUDICIAL DECISIONS AND DECISIONS OF ADMINISTRATIVE TRIBUNALS 

One matter went to the Australian Human Rights Commission. This matter was not settled by conciliation 

and thus terminated. A subsequent application was lodged in the Federal Circuit Court. The matter was 

settled. It was managed by Comcover. 

One matter was commenced in the ACT Magistrates Court. This matter was settled. It was managed 

by Comcover. 

MINISTERIAL REFERRAL TO THE CEO, COUNCIL OR A PRINCIPAL COMMITTEE 

No matters under section 5D of the NHMRC Act were referred to the CEO, Council or a Principal Committee 

by the portfolio Minister during 2015–16. 

MINISTERIAL DIRECTION TO THE CEO, COUNCIL OR A PRINCIPAL COMMITTEE 

No matters under section 5E of the NHMRC Act were referred to the CEO, Council or a Principal Committee 

by the portfolio Minister during 2015–16. 

REGULATORY RECOMMENDATIONS MADE BY THE CEO 

The CEO made no regulatory recommendations under section 9 of the NHMRC Act during 2015–16. 


INTERIM REGULATORY RECOMMENDATIONS MADE BY THE CEO 

The CEO made no interim regulatory recommendations under section 14 of the NHMRC Act during 2015–16. 

PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEE REVIEW 

There were no inquiries into NHMRC by a parliamentary committee in 2015–16. 

REVIEW OF DECISIONS 

No matters relating to NHMRC went before the Administrative Appeals Tribunal in 2015–16. 

One FOI decision made by NHMRC was reviewed and affirmed by the Acting Australian Information 

Commissioner in August 2015. One FOI decision was under review by the Acting Australian Information 

Commissioner as at 30 June 2016. 

COMMONWEALTH OMBUDSMAN 

One complaint was made to the Commonwealth Ombudsman. The ombudsman advised no investigation 

was required. 

AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL AUDIT OFFICE 

The Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) conducts performance audits of the efficiency and effectiveness 

of NHMRC’s operations and financial audits of its financial statements. NHMRC was not selected for 

participation in external performance audits during 2015–16. 


93

COMPLIANCE AND ASSURANCE 

AUDIT 

The NHMRC Audit Committee has been established under the Public Governance, Performance and 

Accountability Act 2013 (PGPA Act). 


The Audit Committee provides independent assurance and advice to the CEO on NHMRC’s risk, control and 

compliance framework and on its external accountability responsibilities. The Audit Committee charter 

specifies that the committee will review, monitor and advise the CEO on risk management. This is included 

in the committee’s annual work plan. 

Membership of the Audit Committee comprises an independent Chair, a Certified Practising Accountant, 

a member of the NHMRC Council or a Principal Committee, a member with relevant knowledge of the 

health and medical research sector, and the General Manager of the Office of NHMRC. 

Members of the NHMRC Audit Committee are: 

• Ms Gayle Ginnane (Independent Chair) 

• Mr Geoff Knuckey (CPA/Qualified Accountant) 

• Dr Jeannette Young (member of NHMRC Council) 

• Prof Matthew Gillespie (member with relevant knowledge of the health and medical research sector) 

• Mr Tony Kingdon (NHMRC General Manager). 

Participating observers include representatives from the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) and 

the internal auditor (McGrathNicol), as well as the Chief Finance Officer, Internal Audit Officer and the 

Executive Director of the Evidence, Advice and Governance Branch. The Audit Committee met on four 

occasions in 2015–16. 

The 2015–16 Annual Internal Audit Work Plan approved by the Audit Committee included performance, 

compliance and assurance audits designed to augment and complete the internal audit themes initiated 

during the previous year to manage whole-of-agency key risks. Audit focus areas included: 

• management of declaration of interest 

• frameworks for the development and approval of guidelines by external and internal developers 

• Information Technology (IT) security and access controls. 

RISK MANAGEMENT 

In support of its mission and strategic objectives, NHMRC is committed to managing its risks both 

strategically and systematically. 

The NHMRC Risk Management Policy and Framework 2016–17 (RMF) provides the foundations and 

organisational arrangements for designing, implementing, monitoring, reviewing and continually improving 

risk management throughout NHMRC. The RMF was developed in accordance with the international 

standard on risk management AS/NZS ISO 31000:2009 Risk Management Principles and Guidelines and is 

consistent with the requirements of the PGPA Act. 

94 


In accordance with the RMF: 

• the CEO, General Manager and executive directors are accountable for the effective implementation of 

the RMF and have responsibility for fostering a culture of positive engagement with and management of 

risk across the agency 

• all directors are required to integrate the RMF into activities for which they are accountable 

• all employees are required to maintain awareness of the risks that relate to their work and to support 

and contribute actively to the management of these risks 

• NHMRC Audit Committee is to advise the CEO on risk management and all matters that could present 

unacceptable risk for the agency. 

Managing risk during 2015–16 

NHMRC maintains a Strategic Risk Register (SRR) which identifies risks facing and potentially preventing 

NHMRC from achieving its strategic objectives. For each risk identified, the SRR details the potential sources 

of the risk, the current controls mitigating the risk and the residual severity of the risk given the controls. The 

SRR also identifies further mitigation strategies to implement if the current controls become ineffective and 

the severity of the risk increases. During 2015–16 the SRR was monitored and discussed monthly by the 

General Manager and Executive Directors. 

In February 2016, NHMRC participated in Comcover’s annual risk management benchmarking survey. This 

annual practice provides NHMRC with an opportunity to review and benchmark its RMF, practices and 

processes against those of comparable agencies. NHMRC set its target risk maturity at ‘integrated’, which 

was achieved. The average maturity level of all survey participants in 2016 was also ‘integrated’. 


FRAUD PREVENTION 

In accordance with the NHMRC Fraud Control Framework 2015–17 and the NHMRC Fraud Control Plan 

2015–17, NHMRC has a number of processes in place to help detect fraud, including post-award compliance 

monitoring, data-mining analysis, post-transaction reviews, and internal and external audits. 

As the NHMRC Accountable Authority, the CEO has a non-delegable duty under section 16 of the PGPA 

Act to establish and maintain systems relating to risk and control. It is also a requirement of the Public 

Governance, Performance and Accountability Rule 2014 (PGPA Rule) that the CEO take all reasonable 

measures to prevent, detect and deal with fraud. 

To assist the CEO to meet these obligations, a senior executive has been appointed as the NHMRC Fraud 

Control Officer. The Fraud Control Officer is a referral point for all allegations of fraud, and is responsible 

for maintaining a fraud incident register and undertaking a preliminary assessment to determine whether 

reported behaviour is potentially fraudulent in nature. 

Through its funding agreements with administering institutions, NHMRC requires compliance with the 

Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research 2007, which supports and encourages reporting 

allegations of research misconduct across the Australian health and medical research sector. 

NHMRC systematically reviews its internal control systems, including the Research Grants Management 

System (RGMS), and processes to identify gaps and strengthen internal controls. 


95

In October 2015, in accordance with section 10 of the PGPA Rule, the Commonwealth Fraud Control Policy 

and the Department of Finance Resource management guide No. 201, NHMRC reported fraud data to the 

Australian Institute of Criminology for 2014–15. For the relevant period, NHMRC reported one internal and 

four external incidents of fraud with an estimated value of $823,660.00. NHMRC subsequently recovered 

$142,574.82. 

Officers of NHMRC are expected to act with integrity and fairness and uphold the values of the Australian 

Public Service in their dealings with the Minister and all stakeholders. 

PRIVACY 


All documents held by NHMRC containing personal information are handled in accordance with the 

provisions of the Privacy Act 1988, which sets standards for the collection, storage, use and disclosure of, 

and access to and correction of, that personal information. 

NHMRC updated its Privacy Policy in September 2015. In accordance with clause 1.3 of Australian Privacy 

Principle 1, the NHMRC Privacy Policy addresses the open and transparent management of personal 

information by identifying the purposes for which NHMRC collects, holds, uses and discloses personal 

information. NHMRC provides an environment in which all personal information is handled securely 

and efficiently. 

No reports were served on NHMRC by the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OIAC) under 

section 30 of the Privacy Act 1988 in 2015–16. No determinations were served on NHMRC by the OAIC 

under section 52 of the Privacy Act 1988 in 2015–16. 

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION 

Agencies subject to the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (FOI Act) are required to publish information to the 

public as part of the Information Publication Scheme (IPS). This requirement is in Part II of the FOI Act and 

has replaced the former requirement to publish a section 8 statement in agency annual reports. The NHMRC 

website contains the plan for the information it publishes in accordance with the IPS requirements. 

Freedom of information requests 

NHMRC publishes information to which access has been granted under the FOI Act in its Freedom of 

Information Disclosure Log, which is available via the ‘Freedom of Information’ link on the homepage of the 

NHMRC website. 

96 


Table 19 Freedom of Information requests 2015–16 

FOI applications 

Quantity 

Matters on hand at 1 July 2015 3 

Requests received 14 

Requests finalised 13 

Outstanding at 30 June 2016 4 

Internal reviews 





OAIC matters 






Administrative Appeals Tribunal matters 

Matters on hand at 30 June 2016 0 


97

RESEARCH INTEGRITY 

NOTIFICATIONS OF RESEARCH MISCONDUCT MATTERS 


In line with NHMRC policy, institutions must notify NHMRC of any research misconduct findings or breaches 

of the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research 2007 related to NHMRC funding. NHMRC 

carried over notifications relating to six matters from 2014–15 and has received a further four notifications 

during 2015–16. It is the responsibility of the relevant institution to investigate allegations of research 

misconduct consistent with the code. In response to findings of research misconduct, NHMRC may take 

action in relation to the institution or the researcher. Actions may include, for example, recovery of research 

funding from an institution or restrictions on a researcher’s applications for funding for a period of time. In 

2015–16, NHMRC took action in response to two of the notified matters. Ongoing matters from 2015–16 will 

continue to be monitored during 2016–17. 

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE AUSTRALIAN RESEARCH INTEGRITY COMMITTEE 

2015–16 

This is the annual report of the Australian Research Integrity Committee (ARIC) to the CEO of NHMRC. 

ARIC was jointly established by NHMRC and the Australian Research Council (ARC) in 2011 and reports to 

both agencies. As a result of the joint NHMRC and ARC appointment, ARIC reports separately to the ARC on 

cases that arise in the jurisdiction created under the ARC’s legislation. Information on those activities can be 

found in the ARC’s Annual Report. 

ARIC provides a review system of institutional processes to respond to allegations of research misconduct. 

This system is intended to ensure that institutions investigate such allegations and observe due process 

in doing so, consistent with the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research 2007. The 

framework under which ARIC operates applies to both NHMRC and ARC matters and is designed to 

contribute to quality assurance and public confidence regarding the integrity of Australia’s research effort. 

ARIC is chaired by Mr Ron Brent and the members are Dr Kerry Breen, Ms Julie Hamblin and Emeritus 

Professor Sheila Shaver. NHMRC reappointed all ARIC members for a second term under section 39 of the 

NHMRC Act for the period 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2016. 

During the 2015–16 reporting period, the NHMRC ARIC has been required to review two matters. One 

investigation has been completed and ARIC found that the processes used to investigate the allegation of 

research misconduct were consistent with the code and no further action was taken. 

The second matter is still being investigated. 

98 


ACCOUNTABILITY 

PURCHASING AND PROCUREMENT 

NHMRC performed its procurement activities in accordance with the Commonwealth Financial Framework, 

specifically the Commonwealth Procurement Rules (CPRs). NHMRC’s Accountable Authority Instructions, 

as well as related policy and procedural manuals, support the CPRs and are periodically reviewed for 

consistency with the CPRs and the Commonwealth Procurement Framework. 

Additionally, NHMRC has worked closely with other agencies resulting in cooperative procurement 

and contracting activities. NHMRC will continue, in the whole-of government context, to comply with 

coordinated procurement initiatives, which facilitate reduced tendering costs and savings through 

economies of scale. 

NHMRC builds capacity within the agency by providing procurement and contract management training and 

circulating procurement and whole-of-government advice from the Department of Finance. 

COMPETITIVE TENDERING AND CONTRACTING 

NHMRC publishes information relating to significant procurement activity it expects to undertake in 2015–16 

in its annual procurement plan, which is available on the Australian Government’s procurement information 

system, AusTender. Details of significant NHMRC contracts and information on expenditure consultancies 

are also publicly available through AusTender. 


EXEMPT CONTRACTS 

NHMRC has no contracts or standing offers that were exempted from publication on AusTender. 

AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL AUDIT OFFICE ACCESS CLAUSES 

NHMRC has not entered into any contracts in 2015–16 that do not provide for the Auditor-General to have 

access to the contractor’s premises. NHMRC’s contract templates include standard clauses providing the 

Auditor-General with appropriate access to a contractor’s premises. 

PROCUREMENT INITIATIVES TO SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES 

NHMRC supports small business participation in the Commonwealth Government procurement market. 

Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) and Small Enterprise participation statistics are available on the 

Department of Finance’s website: www.finance.gov.au/procurement/statistics-on-commonwealthpurchasing-contracts/. 

NHMRC recognises the importance of ensuring that small businesses are paid on time. The results of the 

Survey of Australian Government Payments to Small Business are available on the Treasury’s website: 

www.treasury.gov.au. NHMRC achieved an on-time average of 99% of all payments to small businesses or 

individuals in 2015–16. 


99

NHMRC employs the following initiatives or practices to support SME’s as per paragraph 5.4 of the 

Commonwealth Procurement Rules: 

• Using the Commonwealth Contracting Suite for low risk procurements valued under $200,000 

• Following the Small Business Engagement Principles, such as communicating in clear, simple language 

and presenting information in an accessible format 

• Using electronic systems or other processes that facilitate on-time payment performance, including the 

use of payment cards. 

NHMRC supports the Indigenous Procurement Policy (IPP) and if there is an Indigenous business that can 

deliver any new domestic contract between $80,000 and $200,000, on a value for money basis, NHMRC 

must offer it to them first. 


CONSULTANCY SERVICES 

NHMRC uses guidance published by the Department of Finance on Procurement Policy to distinguish 

between consultancy and non-consultancy contracts for annual reporting purposes. 

NHMRC engages consultants where it lacks specialist expertise or when independent research, review 

or assessment is required. Consultants are typically engaged to investigate or diagnose a defined issue or 

problem; carry out defined reviews or evaluations; or provide independent advice, information or creative 

solutions to assist in the agency’s decision-making. 

Prior to engaging consultants, NHMRC takes into account the skills and resources required for the task, the 

skills available internally, and the cost-effectiveness of engaging external expertise. The decision to engage 

a consultant is made in accordance with the PGPA Act and related regulations, including the CPRs and 

relevant internal policies. 

During 2015–16, nine new consultancy contracts were entered into involving total actual expenditure of 

$319,277.60. In addition, 12 ongoing consultancy contracts were active during 2015–16 year, involving total 

actual expenditure of $255,743.73. The total expenditure during 2015–16 was $575,021.33. 

Table 20 Consultancy contract expenditure from 2011–12 to 2015–16 

2011–12 2012–13 2013–14 2014–15 2015–16 

Expenditure against 

contracts awarded in 

previous years 

$607,286.20 $774,778.61 $660,946.15 $1,375,018.70 $575,021.33 

100 


Table 21 

Consultancy services let during 2015–16 of $10,000 or more 

Consultant Name 

Nous Group Pty Ltd 

Datacom Systems 

(ACT) Pty Ltd 

Lime Business 

Solutions 

Workplace Research 

Associates Pty Ltd 

Description 

Creating a unitary program 

for a Dementia Research 

Cloud Strategy and Transition 

Roadmap 

Contract 

Price 

Selection Process Justification 

$284,690.64 Open tender B 

$140,898.88 Open tender B 

Digital Transition Strategy $77,925.00 Limited tender B 

Development of NHMRC 

Strategic Workforce Plan 

$76,445.60 Limited tender B 

Minter Ellison Legal Services $70,000.00 Prequalified tender B 

McGrathNicol 

Advisory Partnership 

AARNet Pty Ltd 

King & Wood 

Mallesons 

JS Halliday 

Consulting 

Ovum Pty Ltd 

Matthew Todd 

Gillespie 

Internal Audit Services $58,950.00 Open tender A 

Technical advice and project 

management services 


Legal Services $60,000.00 Prequalified tender B 

HR Consulting Services $31,106.00 Limited tender C 

NHMRC Cloud Strategy 

Transition Roadmap Review 

$21,230.00 Open tender A 

Audit Committee Member $19,800.00 Limited tender B 

McBeath Pty Ltd Audit Committee Member $19,800.00 Limited tender B 

Optum Health and 

Technology (Australia) 

Pty Ltd 

SHDC Workplace 

Solutions 

Employee Assistance 

Program 

Provision of specialist 

industrial relations advice 




ASSET MANAGEMENT 

Asset management is not a significant aspect of the strategic business of NHMRC. The agency’s fixed 

assets include office fit-out, computer equipment, telephony, furniture and equipment held in Canberra 

and Melbourne. 

During 2015–16, NHMRC continued to develop software to support and enhance the Research Grants 

Management System. Video conferencing functionality was established during 2014–15, which included the 

purchase of video conferencing equipment. NHMRC’s strategy for asset management emphasises a wholeof-life 

approach to the use of assets and commits the agency to responsible and cost-effective management. 

An annual review process minimises holdings of surpluses and underperforming assets. 


101

ADVERTISING AND MARKET RESEARCH 

During 2015–16, NHMRC did not incur any costs relating to market research, polling or direct mail, or 

conducting any advertising or marketing campaigns. 

COMPLAINTS 

NHMRC has a complaints process for people who are dissatisfied with NHMRC decisions or 

actions. Generally complaints are resolved within the area of the Office of NHMRC responsible for the 

function, with an independent complaints team providing an oversight and escalation role. 

In 2015–16, NHMRC received 76 complaints about NHMRC’s funding or grant processes. 


Table 22 Numbers of complaints received by NHMRC 2015–16 

Types of complaints 

Complaints 

received 

Matters on 

hand 

Complaints 

finalised 

Project Grants funding scheme 27 0 27 

Program and Partnership funding schemes 11 0 11 

People support funding schemes 38 0 38 

Complaints to the Commissioner of Complaints 11 4 7 

NHMRC Commissioner of Complaints 

Professor Don Chalmers is the NHMRC Commissioner of Complaints. A biography of Professor Chalmers is 

available in Appendix 8. 

Annual Report of NHMRC Commissioner of Complaints for 2015–2016 

The report is provided pursuant to section 68 of the NHMRC Act. It covers the 12 months from 1 July 2015 

to 30 June 2016. During this time I investigated and finalised five complaints and decided not to investigate 

one complaint as it did not pertain to a reviewable action and was therefore not within my remit to 

investigate. Investigations in relation to four new complaints were ongoing at 30 June 2016. 

As Commissioner, my role in brief is to investigate complaints relating to a reviewable action as described 

in Section 58 of the NHMRC Act. A reviewable action is an action taken by the CEO or delegate relating to 

recommendations to the Minister regarding expenditure on public health and medical research and training, 

or an action taken by the Research Committee in relation to an application for funding made on or after 24 

June 1993. I am required to investigate the procedures for natural justice, fairness, good faith and absence 

of conflicts of interest in NHMRC’s processes in reaching a decision. I am not entitled to examine the merits 

of the reasoning behind the reviewable action or substitute my view for that of NHMRC, the Research 

Committee or peer reviewers. 

After finalising the investigation of a complaint, I am obliged under section 66 of the Act to report to the CEO 

where I conclude that an action as affected by one or more grounds of complaint listed in section 58. Under 

section 67 of the Act, I have the discretion to make a recommendation in relation to the outcome of my 

investigation into a complaint about a reviewable action. This could include recommendations to reconsider 

actions; rectify, mitigate or alter the effects of an action; or revoke or vary a decision. 

102 


Complaints and their outcomes 

Of the nine complaints investigated: 

• Four related to low application scores from applications that were not funded or ranked as ‘not for 

further consideration’ (NFFC). I concluded that NHMRC had acted in a procedurally fair way and 

properly dispensed its duties and responsibilities according to the applicable NHMRC Funding Rules 

and Guidelines. I conducted a review of procedures for natural justice, fairness and absence of conflict 

of interest in NHMRC procedures, and I concluded that NHMRC was not in error procedurally or 

substantively. In one instance, I recommended that NHMRC consider the complaint and my ruling when 

reviewing NHMRC procedures. 

• One related to a finding of ineligibility in relation to requirements of relevant funding rules. In 

investigating this complaint, I conducted a review of procedures for natural justice, fairness and absence 

of conflict of interest in NHMRC procedures in reaching the decision of ineligibility. In doing this I 

considered all documents provided by the complainants, the applicable NHMRC Scheme and Funding 

rules and policy. I concluded that each of the eligibility considerations was applied correctly. 

• Four complaints are still under investigation and have not yet been finalised. 

Of the five investigations finalised, the most common grounds for complaint from section 58 of the 

Act were: 

• that the action involved a breach of the rules of natural justice (3) 

• that there was no evidence or other material to justify the action (2) 

• that an irrelevant consideration was taken into account in relation to the action (5) 

• that a relevant consideration was not taken into account in relation to the action (1) 

• that the action involved the exercise of a discretionary power in accordance with a rule of policy without 

regard to merit of the particular cases (3). 

The funding schemes that the complaints related to included: 


• Centres of Research Excellence 

• Research Fellowships 

• Project Grants 

• Early Career Fellowship 

• Program Grants. 

PROPERTY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 

Accommodation 

NHMRC continues to minimise its impact on the environment through responsible and efficient 

consumption, use and disposal of resources. NHMRC works to: 

• improve its environmental performance to meet legislative requirements and maintain NHMRC’s 

Environmental Management System to ISO 14001:2004 

• build a strong environmental ethos by increasing awareness and commitment by employees and key 

stakeholders to meet agreed environmental targets 

• integrate environmentally sustainable practices into day-to-day activities performed by 

NHMRC employees. 


103

Environmental Management Policy 

NHMRC continues to adhere to its Environmental Management Policy to cover the activities, products and 

services of its office-based operations at both the Canberra and Melbourne offices. The policy is based on 

international and domestic legislation, policies and standards, including: 

• Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 

• AS/NZS ISO 14001:2004 – Environmental Management Systems 

• Australian Government Energy Efficiency in Government Operations (EEGO) Policy. 


NHMRC’s Environmental Management Policy enables us to incorporate environmental considerations such 

as energy and water conservation, as well as waste and resource management, into business activities it 

controls or influences within the context of achieving corporate business outcomes. 

Energy consumption 

NHMRC’s energy consumption is continually monitored and recorded. The following outlines the annual 

energy consumption for the Canberra office from 1 May 2015 to 1 May 2016. 

Table 23 

Tenancy 

Tenant light and power 

2015–16 

Energy (GJ) Area (m 2 ) MJ / m 2 People* MJ / Person** 

Canberra – 16 Marcus Clarke St 901.29 5,052 178.40 203.37 4,431.78 

*Includes employees from Cancer Australia and the NHMRC National Institute for Dementia Research. 

Melbourne office has been removed from the energy consumption table as it was co-located with the 

Department of Health for the majority of the reporting period. 

**The EEGO Policy target for Office - Tenant Light and Power is 7500 MJ / Person / Annum 

NABERS energy rating 

The National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS) is a national rating system that 

measures the environmental performance of Australian buildings, tenancies and homes. NABERS measures 

the energy efficiency, water usage, waste management and indoor environment quality of a building or 

tenancy and its impact on the environment. 

In accordance with the current Green Lease Schedule for the Canberra tenancy, NHMRC is required to 

achieve a 4.5 star NABERS energy tenancy rating. In November 2015, NHMRC achieved a 5.5 star NABERS 

energy tenancy rating. 

104 


CORRECTION OF MATERIAL ERRORS IN PREVIOUS 

ANNUAL REPORT 

There were no corrections to statements or figures in the Annual Report 2014-2015. 



105

Improving respiratory outcomes for preterm babies 

Professor Jane Pillow – University of Western Australia 


“This research will provide a new opportunity to 

protect the preterm infant from developing chronic 

respiratory disease.” 

Professor Jane Pillow and her team studied diaphragms 

of preterm lambs to understand whether maternal and 

environmental factors adversely affect the development 

of the diaphragm in an unborn baby. The team discovered 

that factors such as antenatal infection and high-dose 

maternal steroid treatment weaken the diaphragm, likely 

contributing to breathing difficulties after birth in preterm 

infants. These discoveries have 

opened a new area of focus in improving respiratory 

outcomes for preterm infants. 

The diaphragm is the major muscle involved in breathing 

and a normal function of the diaphragm is essential 

to survival. Professor Jane Pillow’s research strives 

to understand how the diaphragm develops and how 

impaired diaphragm function contributes to breathing 

difficulties after birth in preterm infants. 

106 


CASE STUDY 

The team studied diaphragms of preterm lambs to 

determine how fetal exposure to common events such 

as maternal steroids or infection of the womb affects 

diaphragm development in an unborn baby. 

Through this research, Professor Pillow and her team 

discovered that the preterm diaphragm is weaker 

than the diaphragm of babies born after a normal and 

complete gestation. This may be due to increased 

breakdown of the muscle protein and increased 

susceptibility to damage from oxygen free radicals. 

Respiratory disease 

is the leading cause 

of mortality in 

preterm infants 

Professor Pillow explained that the diaphragm is further 

impaired when the fetus is exposed to infection in the 

womb or high-dose maternal steroids. 

“Preterm babies are more likely to be exposed to 

infection and other agents that interfere with diaphragm 

development, making breathing efforts weaker after birth 

and potentially leading to respiratory failure. 

“Our studies suggested that the timing of the exposure 

to infection in the womb is critical; exposure early in 

gestation results in weaker diaphragms than those 

exposed closer to term gestation. 

“Fetal exposure to maternal steroids, which are often 

used to improve the lung development of fetuses that are 

likely to be born preterm, may also be harmful to longterm 

diaphragm development when administered at high 

doses,” Professor Pillow explained. 

These findings have the potential to benefit preterm 

infants at risk of acute and chronic respiratory disease. 

The team has opened a new area for focus in protecting 

and treating premature babies at risk of respiratory 

failure. 

“As the diaphragm is the main muscle driving our ability 

to breathe independently, impaired diaphragm function 

decreases our ability to breathe without mechanical 

assistance. Furthermore, the use of mechanical 

ventilation to support the breathing of infants who 

cannot sustain independent breathing may further impair 

the function of the diaphragm. Thus, adverse exposures 

such as womb infections may initiate a vicious cycle 

of impaired diaphragm function that may make it very 

difficult to wean the infants off mechanical ventilation so 

that they can breathe on their own without support. 

“Preventing diaphragm dysfunction through ventilatory 

or pharmacological treatments will provide a new 

opportunity to protect the preterm infant from developing 

chronic respiratory disease. 

“These findings will be of interest to clinicians and 

nurses treating preterm infants, and to the parents 

of the infants at risk for this disorder,” Professor 

Pillow concluded. 


“We were able to show that this weakness in the 

diaphragm after fetal exposure to a womb infection 

could be partly reduced by preventing the inflammatory 

response through blocking a key component in the 

pathway called interleukin,” Professor Pillow said. 


107

Eve, Year 3/4

4 Part 

PEOPLE MANAGEMENT 

People 110 


PEOPLE 

NHMRC recognises the value of its people and is committed to ensuring a supportive workplace culture that 

maximises individual potential for success. 

NHMRC actively participates in the Australian Public Service (APS) employee census conducted annually by 

the Australian Public Service Commission. Results from the census are used as the standard engagement 

measurement tool across the agency and allow benchmarking with small agencies across the APS. Results 

for NHMRC from the 2015 APS employee census showed that job engagement, team engagement and 

agency engagement were well above the APS-wide results. 

PART 4 People Management 

EMPLOYEE OVERVIEW 

As at 30 June 2016, NHMRC’s workforce consisted of: 

• 219 staff 

• 69 per cent female; 31 per cent male (female employees made up 74 per cent of the 

part-time workforce) 

• 81.3 per cent full-time workers; 18.3 per cent part-time workers; 0.4 per cent casual workers 

• 190 people employed on an ongoing basis (87 per cent), 28 non-ongoing; 1 casual 

• 92 per cent of the workforce was based in Canberra and 8 per cent in Melbourne. 

Other notable employee statistics include: 

• 1 per cent of employees identified as Indigenous Australians 

• 5 per cent of employees identified themselves as having a disability 

• 10 per cent of employees are from a non-English-speaking background. 

Figure 11 Breakdown by classification level as at 30 June 2016 

35% 

PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL NHMRC STAFF 

30% 

25% 

20% 

15% 

10% 

5% 

0% 

29.68% 

19.18% 18.72% 

14.16% 

9.13% 

5.94% 

0.46% 

1.83% 

0.46% 0.46% 

APS2 APS3 APS4 APS5 APS6 EL1 EL2 SES1 SES2 CEO 

CLASSIFICATION 

110 


Table 24 NHMRC employee overview as at 30 June 2016 

Classification 

Casual Non-ongoing Ongoing 

F M F M F M 

Total 

CEO 1 1 

SES Band 2 1 1 

SES Band 1 1 3 4 

EL2 1 1 19 10 31 

EL1 1 43 21 65 

APS6 3 1 30 7 41 

APS5 5 4 22 11 42 

APS4 6 1 10 3 20 

APS3 4 1 6 2 13 

APS2 1 1 

Total 1 28 190 219 


Women made up approximately two-thirds of NHMRC’s workforce (women: 69 per cent, men: 31 per 

cent) however the relative percentages of men and women varied by classification level. At the APS levels, 

women outnumbered men, while at the EL and SES levels, men outnumbered women. 

Figure 12 

Number of men and women by classification level 

50 

45 

44 

40 

NUMBER 

35 

30 

25 

20 

15 

10 

5 

0 

33 

27 

21 

19 

16 

15 

12 

10 

8 

3 

4 

3 

1 

0 

1 

0 

1 1 

0 

APS2 APS3 APS4 APS5 APS6 EL1 EL2 SES1 SES2 CEO 

CLASSIFICATION 

FEMALE 

MALE 


111

Figure 13 

30 

Classification breakdown by age 

25 

NUMBER OF STAFF 

20 

15 

10 

5 


0 

APS3 APS4 APS5 APS6 EL1 EL2 

APS LEVEL 

20 to 29 30 to 39 40 to 49 50 to 59 60 over 

Equal employment opportunity 

Representation of equal employment opportunity groups as a percentage of employees, at 30 June 2016. 

Table 25 Representation of equal employment opportunity groups as a percentage of 

staff, at 30 June 2016 

Opportunity Group Number of staff % of total staff 

Women 147 69% 

Diverse cultural and linguistic background 22 10% 

Indigenous 2 1% 

People with a disability 12 5% 

Carer 33 15% 

WORKFORCE PLANNING 

NHMRC is embarking on a significant strategic review of its people capability, recognising that over the 

coming years it will need to deliver its outputs in a resource-constrained environment. 

A strategic workforce plan will enable NHMRC to identify and minimise workforce-related risks, and is 

considered an important component of organisational risk management. The NHMRC Strategic Workforce 

Plan will identify the workforce capacity and capability NHMRC needs to meet its objectives, now and in 

the future. This includes building a diverse and agile workforce by focusing on increasing opportunities for 

flexible working arrangements and being able to move employees to key projects or areas to meet workload 

peaks or capability gaps. 

Workforce planning consultations have shown no major concerns about critical gaps in NHMRC’s skills base 

but employee development needs to remain focused on project management, data analytics, and strategic 

policy advice. 

112 


Consultations also raised the importance of: 

• developing employees with leadership and management skills 

• flexibility and adaptability of employees as resources become more constrained and all employees will 

need to have the ability to think flexibly and adapt quickly to new working environments 

• the agency’s ability to maintain its role across government in response to operational savings measures. 

WORKPLACE RELATIONS 

Enterprise Agreement 

During the reporting period, all Australian Public Service Level 1 (APS 1) to Executive Level 2 (EL 2) 

employees remained covered by the terms and conditions of employment under the NHMRC Enterprise 

Agreement 2011–2014. The agreement nominally expired on 30 June 2014, and bargaining for a replacement 

continued with employee representatives throughout the reporting period. 

The Enterprise Agreement bargaining team met throughout this year. The proposed agreement went to a 

ballot in March 2016, but was not endorsed by the majority of employees who participated in the vote. 

SES employment agreements 


As at 30 June 2016, 6 SES Employment Agreements (common law contracts) were in place. 

Other employment instruments 

There were no determinations made under section 24(1) of the Public Service Act 1999 in the reporting 

period 2015–16. 

Salary 

Table 26 NHMRC salary ranges by classification as at 30 June 2016 

Classification 

Salary range 

APS1 $ 41,530 - $ 46,641 

APS2 $ 48,539 - $ 52,968 

APS3 $ 56,093 - $ 62,174 

APS4 $ 63,552 - $ 67,148 

APS5 $ 69,123 - $ 72,956 

APS6 $ 76,253 - $ 86,024 

EL1 $ 93,975 - $ 106,910 

EL2 $ 111,798 - $ 132,364 


113

Performance pay 

The Performance Partnerships Program operates with pay point progression available to employees 

who achieve an ‘effective’ rating during the performance cycle, which runs from July to June each year. 

Performance pay is not available to employees of NHMRC. 

WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY 

NHMRC is committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace for all of its employees. NHMRC 

demonstrates this commitment by holding quarterly Work Health and Safety Committee meetings and 

continues to provide: 


• first aid training to nominated first aid officers within NHMRC 

• employer-subsidised eyesight testing for screen-based work 

• training for fire wardens and health and safety representatives 

• influenza vaccinations to employees 

• workstation assessments 

• mental health awareness training. 

NHMRC continued to make an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) available to all employees and their 

families. The EAP provides face-to-face and online counselling services for the convenience of all employees. 

NHMRC is currently developing a Rehabilitation Management System (RMS) in line with the legislative 

requirements. The RMS includes: 

• return to work and fitness for duty policies 

• early intervention fact sheet 

• early intervention training sessions for managers 

• raising awareness through consultation with employees. 

These initiatives, along with a strong early intervention program for employees experiencing pain or 

discomfort at the workplace and an active Health and Safety Committee, mean that NHMRC’s employees 

have a good awareness of their responsibilities with regard to health and safety, and their own health and 

wellbeing. The Work Health and Safety Team has implemented a 24-hour turnaround response rate upon 

notification of an incident as an effective strategy for early intervention. 

NHMRC’s Work Health and Safety Arrangements (WHSAs) are available to all employees via the intranet 

and all noticeboards. All new employees are given the WHSAs when commencing employment, as well as 

information about correct workstation set-up. 

There was one workers’ compensation claim lodged and accepted in 2015–16. 

114 


LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT 

NHMRC’s learning and development practices are largely driven through the use of Individual Work Plans 

that identify the skills and knowledge required to contribute to NHMRC’s objectives and outcomes. 

Employees are encouraged to participate in appropriate training and development activities to meet 

these requirements. 

During 2015–16, NHMRC continued to build upon capability by rolling out a number of e-learning courses to 

assist employees understand new legislative requirements that affect their work. 

In June 2016 NHMRC introduced Learnhub (an eLearning system) created by the Australian Government’s 

Shared Services Centre. Learnhub has allowed NHMRC to access a highly customisable and cost effective 

solution to deliver a range of training courses electronically. Learnhub is also cloud hosted, so it is readily 

accessible to NHMRC’s employees from any device in any location. 

Through Learnhub, NHMRC can now: 

• deliver essential modules on APS and NHMRC policies and processes as part of a suite of APS Core 

Skills Corporate training 

• use e-learning to support NHMRC’s Corporate learning and development initiatives 

• deliver training to meet APS compliance obligations 

• provide employees with access to a range of APS endorsed training resources. 


WORKPLACE DIVERSITY 

NHMRC is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is valued and celebrated. NHMRC 

takes seriously its commitment to provide all employees with a safe working environment and to promote a 

positive workplace culture where bullying and harassment are not tolerated. 

The agency is undertaking a number of projects under the banner of workplace diversity, including: 

• updating NHMRC’s Workplace Diversity Action Plan 

• increasing the number of Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander employees through the Indigenous 

Employment Strategy and Indigenous Internship program 

• progressing the Reconciliation Action Plan 

• reviewing human resources and other processes to comply with the Australian Government Guidelines 

on the Recognition of Sex and Gender 

• increasing disability awareness through partnering with the Australian Network on Disability 

• establishing an employee diversity network. 

NHMRC has two Senior Executive diversity champions whose roles include promoting inclusivity within the 

agency and advocating on diversity issues when required. The champions are actively involved in NHMRC’s 

annual participation in important days on the diversity calendar including International Women’s Day, 

Harmony Day, National Reconciliation Week, NAIDOC and the International Day of People with Disability. 

NHMRC has a network of Workplace Harassment Contact Officers (WHCOs) whose role is to provide 

information to employees and managers about processes available to resolve complaints and types of 

behaviour which are inappropriate at work, in line with the APS Code of Conduct. 


115

REWARD AND RECOGNITION 

Reward and recognition play an extremely important role in shaping NHMRC culture and the behaviours of 

its employees. NHMRC’s Australia Day Awards program publicly acknowledges the outstanding performance 

of individual employees and teams who have demonstrated high levels of innovation, collaboration and 

impact in the workplace in the previous year. The awards are presented annually. 

The recipient of the silver medallion was selected from those employees who received an ‘Outstanding’ 

performance rating at the end of the Performance Partnerships cycle. The silver medallion for 2016 was 

awarded to Jillian Barr for outstanding leadership in her role as Director of the Ethics and Governance Section. 

The following individuals were awarded bronze medallions for 2016: Joel Ceramidas, Pru Glasson, Frank 

Jerez, Dr Patricia Ridgway, Ivan Sharma and Benjamin Wise. 


To be a recipient of a bronze medallion an employee or team must meet one or more of the 

following criteria: 

• consistent, high level of dedication and achievement, over and above that which is required to achieve 

the business goals of NHMRC 

• successful implementation of an NHMRC initiative which benefits the Australian public 

• continuous improvement initiatives for planning and work practices leading to a sustained improvement 

in productivity 

• consistent, excellent customer service in areas such as responsiveness, courtesy, accuracy, and 

knowledge of product/service 

• outstanding contribution which has a positive, important impact on corporate objectives or reputation 

• an individual or team demonstrating excellence in the way they do their work, including their 

professionalism, communication skills and leadership. 

(Left to right) NHMRC Australia Day 

Award winners with CEO Professor 

Anne Kelso AO, Benjamin Wise, Jillian 

Barr, Joel Ceramidas, Pru Glasson, 

Dr Patricia Ridgway, Ivan Sharma 

(absent Frank Jerez) 

116 


Flexible workplace practices 

CASE STUDY 

NHMRC is adopting more 

innovative and flexible 

ways of working in 

order to meet business 

objectives, to maintain 

productivity and to 

attract and retain 

skilled employees 

Employees need flexibility to balance career, education 

and life roles and to extend their work life. Rapid 

advances in the application of new technologies and 

telecommunications help employers to structure work 

arrangements more flexibly. 

Notes supplied by employee, Ms Kylie Robinson 

“I recently accepted a six-month temporary transfer 

commencing in the Workforce Performance and Health 

team at NHMRC. I look after Work Health and Safety, 

reviewing Performance Management and Code of 

Conduct Policies as well as providing secretariat support 

to our Health and Safety Committee. My role within the 

team is predominately project based which allows me 

to work from home three days per week. I also manage 

our Workforce Performance and Health Inbox from home, 

responding to employee queries as they arise. I’m a mum 

with three young girls aged 4, 5 and 6 years old and I find 

the flexible working arrangement gives me the flexibility 

I need to manage my family and work commitments 

and be fully effective in both roles. I feel that if I didn’t 

have flexible working arrangements in place it would be 

difficult for me to continue working as I don’t have the 

support required to help with family commitments e.g. 

school pick-up/drop-offs etc. 

I am one of the first employees at NHMRC to work from 

home for more than 50 per cent of the working week. 

The most important part of making my work from home 

arrangement a success is the support given to me by 

my Supervisor, Human Resources Director and Branch 

Head by ensuring I have the correct systems in place to 

make working from home achievable. It also helps to be 

always included in meetings, team activities and other 

special events. 

My supervisor plays a very important role in making 

work from home possible. We talk once or twice a day 

and always keep each other updated on relevant events. 

She is very supportive, gives me regular feedback and is 

always there to provide advice when needed. Overall I 

am enjoying working from home and I find I achieve all 

my work targets that have been set for the week as well 

as the daily and business as usual tasks.” 

Notes supplied by Kylie’s supervisor, 

Ms Amelia Burns 

“This is the first time I have managed an employee who 

works from home more than 50 per cent of the working 

week. My employee has three young children and as a 

result a busy life outside of work. Providing a flexible 

working arrangement such as this allows Kylie to fulfil 

her duties as a mum and also be fully effective in the 

workplace. It is amazing how much work she gets done 

from home – one day for Kylie working from home 

compares to three days in the office (this is because 

there are no interruptions). We talk once or twice a 

day and also email as a form of communication. To 

make this arrangement successful requires a different 

way of thinking and as a result the benefits speak for 

themselves as the work being produced is of a high 

quality and volume.” 



117


Victoria, Year 3 

118 


PART 5 

FINANCIAL REPORT 

Financial Performance Summary 120 

Agency Resource Statement 121 

NHMRC Financial Statements 2015–16 122 

Independent Auditor’s Report 123 

Statement by the Accountable Authority and Chief Financial Officer 125 


FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE SUMMARY 

This section highlights NHMRC’s financial performance during 2015–16 for both Departmental and 

Administered activities. 

FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE – DEPARTMENTAL 

NHMRC’s Departmental financial performance for 2015–16 is summarised in the following table. 

PART 5 financial report 

Table 27 

Departmental financial performance 

30 June 2016 

($’000) 

30 June 2015 

($’000) 

Operating expenses 41,470 43,751 

Own-source income (1,248) (699) 

Gains (430) (105) 

Net cost of services 39,792 42,947 

Revenue from government (40,237) (40,722) 

Operating (deficit) / surplus 445 (2,225) 

Change in asset revaluation surplus* 51 0 

Total Operating (deficit) / surplus 496 (2,225) 

* Due to an asset revaluation of property, plant and equipment in 2015–16. 

NHMRC’s operating result for 2015–16 was a surplus of $0.5 million. This was within the approved 

Department of Finance loss of $2.2 million for non-appropriated expenses for depreciation and amortisation. 

FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE – ADMINISTERED 

NHMRC administered $828.8 million in expenses on behalf of Government during 2015–16. Funding through 

NHMRC’s Medical Research Endowment Account (MREA) amounted to $815.2 million. The remaining 

$13.6 million relates to expenses NHMRC administers for a range of activities related to dementia research, 

anti-venom research, streamlining health and medical research initiatives, clinical trials reform and research 

evidence for clinical practice and policy through the Cochrane collaboration. 

The decrease in Administered expenses ($21.6 million) largely reflects delays in grants awarded from the 

Boosting Dementia Research budget measure and lower than expected awards from previous rounds of 

Partnership projects, Hearing Loss Prevention Program and Program grants. 

The balance of the MREA was $151.4 million at 30 June 2016. 

120 


AGENCY RESOURCE STATEMENT 

Table 28 Agency resource statement 2015–16 

Actual 

available 

appropriation 

for 2015–16 

$’000 

(a) 

Payments 

made 

2015–16 

$’000 

(b) 

Balance 

remaining 

2015–16 

$’000 

(a) – (b) 

Ordinary Annual Services 1 

Departmental appropriation 51,916 41,470 10,446 

Total 51,916 41,470 10,446 

Administered expenses 

Outcome 1 840,583 828,783 

Total 840,583 828,783 

Total ordinary annual services A 892,499 870,253 

Other services 

Departmental non-operating 

Equity injections 4,186 1,358 

Total 4,186 1,358 2,828 

Total other services B 4,186 1,358 

Total Available Annual Appropriations and payments 896,685 871,611 

Special Accounts 

Opening balance 131,417 

Appropriation receipts 2 836,043 

Non-appropriation receipts to Special Acccounts 9,449 

Payments made 825,490 

Total Special Account C 976,909 825,490 151,419 

Total resourcing and payments A+B+C 1,873,594 1,697,101 

Less appropriations drawn from annual or special 

appropriations above and credited to special 

accounts and/or payments to corporate entities 

(836,043) (825,490) 

through annual appropriations 

Total net resourcing and payments for NHMRC 1,037,551 871,611 


1 

Appropriation Act (No.1) 2015–16 and Appropriation Act (No.3) 2015–16. This may also include prior year departmental 

appropriation and section 74 Retained Revenue Receipts. 

2 

Appropriation receipts for 2015–16 included above. 


121

NHMRC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2015–16 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 


Independent Audit Report123 

Statement by the Accountable Authority and Chief Financial Officer125 

Statement of Comprehensive Income126 

Statement of Financial Position127 

Statement of Changes in Equity128 

Cash Flow Statement129 

Administered Schedule of Comprehensive Income130 

Administered Schedule of Assets and Liabilities130 

Administered Reconciliation Schedule131 

Administered Cash Flow Statement131 

Notes to the Financial Statements136 

Note 1: Expenses136 

Note 2: Administered – Expenses137 

Note 3.1 Financial Assets138 

Note 3.2 Non-Financial Assets139 

Note 3.3 Other Payables143 

Note 3.4 Provision for Makegood Obligations143 

Note 4.1 Administered - Financial Assets144 

Note 4.2 Administered - Payables144 

Note 5.1 Appropriations145 

Note 5.2 Special Accounts146 

Note 5.3 Cash Flow Reconciliation147 

Note 5.4 Administered - Cash Flow Reconciliation148 

Note 6.1 Provisions149 

Note 6.2 Senior Management Personnel Remuneration150 

Note 7.1 Contingent Assets and Liabilities 151 

Note 7.2 Financial Instruments152 

Note 7.3 Administered - Financial Instruments153 

Note 7.4 Fair Value Measurement156 

Note 8: Reporting of Outcomes157 

122 


INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT 

To the Minister for Health and Aged Care 

I have audited the accompanying annual financial statements of the National Health and 

Medical Research Council for the year ended 30 June 2016, which comprise: 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Statement by the Accountable Authority and Chief Financial Officer; 

Statement of Comprehensive Income; 

Statement of Financial Position; 

Statement of Changes in Equity; 

Cash Flow Statement; 

Administered Schedule of Comprehensive Income; 

Administered Schedule of Assets and Liabilities; 

Administered Reconciliation Schedule; 

Administered Cash Flow Statement; and 

Notes to the Financial Statements. 


Opinion 

In my opinion, the financial statements of the National Health and Medical Research 

Council: 

(a) 

(b) 

comply with Australian Accounting Standards and the Public Governance, 

Performance and Accountability (Financial Reporting) Rule 2015; and 

present fairly the financial position of the National Health and Medical Research 

Council as at 30 June 2016 and its financial performance and cash flows for the 

year then ended. 

Accountable Authority’s Responsibility for the Financial Statements 

The Chief Executive Officer of the National Health and Medical Research Council is 

responsible under the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 for the 

preparation and fair presentation of annual financial statements that comply with Australian 

Accounting Standards and the rules made under that Act and is also responsible for such 

internal control as the Chief Executive Officer determines is necessary to enable the 

preparation and fair presentation of financial statements that are free from material 

misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. 

GPO Box 707 CANBERRA ACT 2601 

19 National Circuit BARTON ACT 

Phone (02) 6203 7300 Fax (02) 6203 7777 


123

Auditor’s Responsibility 

My responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements based on my audit. I 

have conducted my audit in accordance with the Australian National Audit Office Auditing 

Standards, which incorporate the Australian Auditing Standards. These auditing standards 

require that I comply with relevant ethical requirements relating to audit engagements and 

plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial 

statements are free from material misstatement. 


An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and 

disclosures in the financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s 

judgement, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial 

statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor 

considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the 

financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the 

circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the 

entity’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of the 

accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by the 

Accountable Authority of the entity, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the 

financial statements. 

I believe that the audit evidence I have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a 

basis for my audit opinion. 

Independence 

In conducting my audit, I have followed the independence requirements of the Australian 

National Audit Office, which incorporate the requirements of the Australian accounting 

profession. 

Australian National Audit Office 

Muhammad Qureshi 

Senior Director 

Delegate of the Auditor-General 

Canberra 

13 September 2016 

124 




125

Statement of Comprehensive Income 

for the period ending 30 June 2016 

2016 

Original 

2016 2015 Budget 

Notes $’000 $’000 $’000 

NET COST OF SERVICES 

Expenses 

Employee benefits 1 1A 23,064 23,933 23,926 

Suppliers 2 1B 16,458 17,159 17,909 

Depreciation and amortisation 3.2A 1,931 2,268 2,200 

Finance costs - unwinding of discount 17 33 20 

Write-down and impairment of assets 1C - 358 - 

Total expenses 41,470 43,751 44,055 


Own-Source Income 

Own-source revenue 

Sale of goods and rendering of services 3 1,248 699 1,500 

Total own-source revenue 1,248 699 1,500 

Gains 

Resources received free of charge 108 105 100 

Other gains 4 322 - - 

Total gains 430 105 100 

Net (cost of) services (39,792) (42,947) (42,455) 

Revenue from Government 40,237 40,722 40,255 

Total Revenue from Government 40,237 40,722 40,255 

Surplus / (Deficit) attributable to the Australian Government 445 (2,225) (2,200) 

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 

Items not subject to subsequent reclassification to net cost of services 

Changes in asset revaluation surplus 5 51 - - 

Total other comprehensive income 51 - - 

Total comprehensive income 496 (2,225) (2,200) 

The above statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. 

Budget Variances Commentary 

1. Salary savings have been brought forward through opportunities in streamlining process related tasks and therefore not filling certain 

vacancies. 

2. Variance largely relates to budgeted project expenditure not occuring, anticipated to occur in 2016-17. 

3. Project related funds transferred to unearned revenue, due to work not progressing as planned, anticipated to progress in 2016-17. 

4. Includes receipt from Comcover relating to a claim and a gain realised on makegood for NHMRC's Melbourne lease, where the provision 

was in excess of the makegood expense incurred. 

5. Independent revaluation of Property, Plant and Equipment assets performed as at 31 March 2016, resulted in a net increase in fair value of 

$51k. 

126 


Statement of Financial Position 

as at 30 June 2016 

2016 

Original 

2016 2015 Budget 

Notes $’000 $’000 $’000 

ASSETS 

Financial assets 

Cash and cash equivalents 5.3 409 389 503 

Trade and other receivables 1 3.1 17,071 10,149 8,839 

Total financial assets 17,480 10,538 9,342 

Non-financial assets 

Property, plant and equipment 2 3.2A 5,032 5,761 4,246 

Intangibles - internally developed 3 3.2A 3,267 3,126 8,878 

Intangibles - purchased software 3.2A 87 21 - 

Inventories 3.2B 200 201 280 

Other non-financial assets 3.2C 984 952 1,135 

Total non-financial assets 9,570 10,061 14,539 

Total assets 27,050 20,599 23,881 

LIABILITIES 

Payables 

Trade creditors and accruals 4 2,652 2,392 2,645 

Operating lease rentals 5 899 1,124 - 

Other 6 3.3 2,385 1,342 845 

Total payables 5,936 4,858 3,490 


Provisions 

Employee provisions 6.1 5,675 5,248 5,900 

Provision for makegood obligations 7 3.4 893 629 649 

Total provisions 6,568 5,877 6,549 

Total liabilities 12,504 10,735 10,039 

Net assets 14,546 9,864 13,842 

EQUITY 

Contributed equity 11,602 7,416 11,502 

Reserves 2 124 73 73 

Retained surplus 8 2,820 2,375 2,267 

Total equity 14,546 9,864 13,842 



1. Variance due to an increase in the appropriation receivable balance over the past two years as a result of delays in progressing the capital 

component of the Simplified and Consistent Health and Medical Research budget measure. 

2. Independent revaluation of Property, Plant and Equipment assets was performed as at 31 March 2016, which increased the value of 

Property, Plant and Equipment. An additional $0.7m spent on video conferencing not identified at time of budget. 

3. Variance due to delays in progressing the capital component of the Simplified and Consistent Health and Medical Research budget measure. 

4. Variance due to increased level of accruals for the 2015-16 financial year, noting explanation in #5 below. 

5. Operating lease rental was not seperately budgeted as it was included within the suppliers budget. 

6. Project related funds received in advance of work being performed. Work was delayed and will progress in the first quarter of 2016-17. 

7. Independent revaluation of Property, Plant and Equipment assets was performed as at 31 March 2016, reflecting an increase in fair value of 

makegood. 

8. Variance due to a combination of the previous related explained variances that have an effect on retained surplus. 


127

Statement of Changes in Equity 


2016 

Original 

2016 2015 Budget 

CONTRIBUTED EQUITY/CAPITAL $’000 $’000 $’000 

Opening balance 

Balance carried forward from previous period 7,416 5,457 7,316 

Adjustment for errors - - - 

Adjusted opening balance 7,416 5,457 7,316 


Transactions with owners 

Contributions by owners 

Departmental capital budget 4,186 1,959 4,186 

Total transactions with owners 4,186 1,959 4,186 

Closing balance as at 30 June 11,602 7,416 11,502 

RETAINED EARNINGS 




Comprehensive income 

Surplus / (Deficit) for the period 445 (2,225) (2,200) 


Other 1 - - 1,466 


ASSET REVALUATION RESERVE 


Balance carried forward from previous period 73 73 73 

Adjusted opening balance 73 73 73 


Surplus / (Deficit) for the period - - - 

Other comprehensive income 2 51 - - 

Total comprehensive income 51 - - 

Closing balance as at 30 June 124 73 73 

TOTAL EQUITY 





Surplus / (Deficit) for the period 445 (2,225) (2,200) 

Other comprehensive income 2 51 - 


Transactions with owners 

Contributions by owners 

Departmental capital budget 4,186 1,959 4,186 

Total transactions with owners 4,186 1,959 4,186 

Other 1 - - 1,466 




1. Leave provisions reduced by adjusting retained earnings, due to NHMRC’s reducing ASL level over the past few years. 

2. Independent revaluation of Property, Plant and Equipment assets performed as at 31 March 2016, which resulted in a net increase in fair value 

of $51k. 

128 


Cash Flow Statement 


2016 

Original 

2016 2015 Budget 

Notes $’000 $’000 $’000 

OPERATING ACTIVITIES 

Cash received 

Goods and services 1 2,524 568 1,500 

Appropriations 39,453 40,223 39,867 

Net GST received 1,231 1,208 1,500 

Total cash received 43,208 41,999 42,867 

Cash used 

Employees (23,191) (24,545) (22,929) 

Suppliers 2 (17,515) (17,108) (19,938) 

Section 74 receipts transferred to OPA 3 (2,476) (284) - 

Total cash used (43,182) (41,937) (42,867) 

Net cash (used by)/from operating activities 5.3 26 62 - 

INVESTING ACTIVITIES 

Cash used 

Purchase of property, plant and equipment 4 3.2A (652) (176) - 

Purchase of intangibles 5 3.2A (706) - (4,186) 

Total cash used (1,358) (176) (4,186) 

Net cash (used by) investing activities (1,358) (176) (4,186) 


FINANCING ACTIVITIES 

Cash received 

Contributed equity 6 1,352 - 4,186 

Total cash received 1,352 - 4,186 

Net cash from financing activities 1,352 - 4,186 

Net increase/(decrease) in cash held 20 (114) - 

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the reporting period 389 503 503 

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the reporting period 5.3 409 389 503 



1. Section 74 receipts - An amount of $0.60m from Department of Industry was budgeted for in 2014-15 but cash was not 

received until 2015-16 and additional amounts of $0.30m from Department of Industry and $0.30m from Comcover received in 

2015-16 were not known and therefore not budgeted for during the preparation of the 2015-16 PBS. The Department of Industry 

amounts relate to initiatives for clinical trials. 

2.Lower than anticipated levels of cash used for suppliers, largely relates to budgeted project expenditure not occurring, 

anticipated to occur in 2016-17. 

3. Section 74 receipts transferred to OPA budget included in the suppliers line in the 2015-16 PBS. 

4.Purchase of video conferencing equipment not identified at time of budget. 

5.Variance due to delays in progressing the capital component of the Simplified and Consistent Health and Medical Research 

budget measure. 

6.Lower than anticipated level of Departmental Capital Budget (DCB) funding required due to lower levels of spending on the 

capital component of the Simplified and Consistent Health and Medical Research budget measure. 


129

Administered Schedule of Comprehensive Income 


NET COST OF SERVICES 

Expenses 

Grants - Medical Research (MREA) 1 

Other expenses incurred in the provision of grants 2 

Total expenses 

Notes 

2016 

2016 2015 

Original 

Budget 

$’000 $’000 $’000 

2A 815,215 831,613 845,780 

2B 13,568 18,736 44,318 

828,783 850,349 890,098 


Income 

Revenue 

Non-taxation revenue 

Rendering of Services 3 

Other Revenue 4 

Total non-taxation revenue 

Total revenue 

Total income 

Net (cost of) services 

12,203 8,575 5,000 

6,247 6,303 3,000 

18,450 14,878 8,000 

18,450 14,878 8,000 

18,450 14,878 8,000 

(810,333) (835,471) (882,098) 

This schedule should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. 


1. The reduction in expenses are due to (i) delays in grants awarded from previous rounds of Targeted Calls for Research; (ii) lower than 

expected awards from previous rounds of Partnership Projects, Hearing Loss Prevention Program, and Program Grants; and (iii) a significant 

underspend against the estimated target for Project Grants, due to the change in payment patterns caused by the shift to five-year grants. 

2. Variance is largely due to an under spend relating to the Boosting Dementia budget measure, caused by delays in establishing the inaugural 

NHMRC National Institute of Dementia Research and subsequent funding rounds. Of the $44.3 million originally budgeted, $32 million was 

received in 2015-16 for Boosting Dementia Research, and has since been awarded as new research grants, to be paid from the Medical 

Research Endowment Account over a five year period. 

3. Variance includes funds received from other Government agencies (Australian Research Council, $9m for Dementia Research 

Development Fellowship Scheme), overlooked from a budget perspective during the preparation of the 2015-16 Portfolio Budget Statements. 

4. Variance is due to higher than anticipated receipts for medical research grant acquittals, repayments, and relinquishments from 

Administering Institutions. This was caused by (i) a concerted effort to recover funds at the end of the financial year; and (ii) an abnormally 

high number of grant relinquishments during the year. 

Administered Schedule of Assets and Liabilities 

as at 30 June 2016 

2016 

2016 2015 

Original 

Budget 

Notes $’000 $’000 $’000 

ASSETS 

Financial assets 

Cash and cash equivalents 5.4 - - - 

Trade and other receivables 1 4.1A 648 919 2,516 

Total financial assets 648 919 2,516 

Total assets administered on behalf of Government 648 919 2,516 

LIABILITIES 

Payables 

Suppliers - - - 

Grants 2 4.2A 6,308 16,854 10,673 

Other Payables 3 4.2B 70 - 256 

Total payables 6,378 16,854 10,929 

Total liabilities administered on behalf of Government 6,378 16,854 10,929 

Net liabilities (5,730) (15,935) (8,413) 



1. Variance is due to improvements in collections processes, and budget overstated due to being based on historical data/trends. 

2. In October 2015, NHMRC changed the grants funding policy relating to approvals for Human Ethics, Animal Ethics, Genetic Manipulation 

and Biosafety. This resulted in a reduction in overall liabilities, as payments for new grants are no longer delayed. 

3. Budget overstated due to being based on historical data/trends. Current actual relates to GST payable that is lower than budgeted due to 

improvements in collection processes noted above. 

130 


Administered Reconciliation Schedule 

2016 2015 

$’000 $’000 

Opening assets less liabilities as at 1 July (15,935) (88,924) 

Net (cost of)/contribution by services 

Income 18,450 14,878 

Expenses 

Payments to Australian Government entities (12,137) (14,664) 

Payments to entities other than Australian Government entities (816,646) (835,685) 

Transfers (to)/from the Australian Government 

Appropriation transfers from Official Public Account 

Annual appropriations 

Payments to entities other than Australian Government entities 840,583 905,715 

Transfers (to)/from the Australian Government (20,045) 2,745 

Closing assets less liabilities as at 30 June (5,730) (15,935) 


Administered Cash Transfers to and from the Official Public Account 

Revenue collected by the NHMRC for use by the Government rather than the agency is administered revenue. Collections are 

transferred to the Official Public Account (OPA) maintained by the Department of Finance. Conversely, cash is drawn from the 

OPA to make payments under Parliamentary appropriation on behalf of Government. These transfers to and from the OPA are 

adjustments to the administered cash held by the NHMRC on behalf of the Government and reported as such in the statement of 

cash flows in the schedule of administered items and in the administered reconciliation table in Note 5.4: Administered - Cash 

Flow Reconciliation. 


Administered Cash Flow Statement 


2016 2015 

Notes $’000 $’000 

OPERATING ACTIVITIES 

Cash received 

Rendering of services 19,180 16,654 

GST received 23,409 25,897 

Total cash received 42,589 42,551 

Cash used 

Grants - Medical Research (MREA) 825,717 905,804 

Other expenses incurred in the provision of grants 13,568 18,736 

GST paid 23,842 26,514 

Total cash used 863,127 951,054 

Net cash (used by) operating activities 5.4 (820,538) (908,503) 

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the reporting period - 43 

Cash from Official Public Account 

Appropriations 840,583 905,715 

Special accounts - 2,745 

Total cash from Official Public Account 840,583 908,460 

Cash to Official Public Account 

Special accounts 20,045 - 

Total cash to the Official Public Account 20,045 - 

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the reporting period 5.4 - - 



131

Overview Note 

Objectives of the National Health and Medical Research Council 

The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) is an Australian Government controlled entity. It is a not-forprofit 

entity. The NHMRC is Australia’s peak body for supporting health and medical research. At the broadest level, the 

aims of the NHMRC are to: 

- raise the standard of individual and public health care throughout Australia; 

- foster development of consistent health standards between the states and territories; 

- foster medical research and training and public health research and training throughout Australia; and 

- foster consideration of ethical issues relating to health. 

The NHMRC is structured to meet one outcome: 


Outcome 1: Australia’s health system benefits from high quality health and medical research conducted at the highest ethical 

standard, well-developed research capabilities and sound evidence-based advice that informs health policy and practice. 

Agency activities contributing toward this outcome are classified as either departmental or administered. Departmental 

activities involve the use of assets, liabilities, income and expenses controlled or incurred by the Agency in its own right. 

Administered activities involve the management or oversight by the Agency, on behalf of the Government, of items 

controlled or incurred by the Government. 

NHMRC's Medical Research Endowment Account (MREA) is a special account established under the National Health and 

Medical Research Council Act 1992. It is the mechanism through which Australian Government funding for health and 

medical research is managed. 

The continued existence of NHMRC in its present form, and with its present programs, is dependent on Government policy 

and on continuing funding by Parliament for the NHMRC’s administration and programs. 

The Basis of Preparation 

The financial statements are general purpose financial statements and are required by section 42 of the Public Governance, 

Performance and Accountability Act 2013. 

The Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with: 

a) Financial Reporting Rule (FRR) for reporting periods ending on or after 1 July 2015; and 

b) Australian Accounting Standards and Interpretations issued by the Australian Accounting Standards Board 

(AASB) that apply for the reporting period. 

The financial statements have been prepared on an accrual basis and in accordance with the historical cost convention, 

except for certain assets and liabilities at fair value. Except where stated, no allowance is made for the effect of changing 

prices on the results or the financial position. The financial statements are presented in Australian dollars. 

New Accounting Standards 

Adoption of New Australian Accounting Standard Requirements 

NHMRC has early adopted the following standard, in line with permissions from the Department of Finance: 

AASB 2015-7 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards – Fair Value Disclosures of Not-for-Profit Public Sector 

Entities. 

This standard relieves not-for-profit public sector entities following disclosures specified in AASB 13 for assets within the 

scope of AASB 16 that are held primarily for their current service potential rather than to generate future net cash inflows: 

(a) for recurring and non-recurring fair value measurements categorised within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy, 

quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement; (b) for recurring fair 

value measurements categorised within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy, the amount of the total gains and losses for the 

period included in profit or loss that is attributable to the change in unrealised gains or losses relating to the assets held at the 

end of the reporting period, and the line item(s) in profit or loss in which those unrealised gains or losses are recognised; and 

(c) for recurring fair value measurements categorised within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy, a narrative description of the 

sensitivity of the fair value measurement to changes in unobservable inputs if a change in those inputs to a different amount 

might result in a significantly higher or lower fair value measurement. Where there are interrelationships between those 

inputs and other unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement, the disclosure of a description of those 

interrelationships and of how they might magnify or mitigate the effect of changes in the unobservable inputs on the fair 

value measurement will also not be required. 

132 


All new standards, amendments to standards and interpretations that were issued prior to the sign-off date and are applicable 

to the current reporting period did not have a material effect, and are not expected to have a future effect, on the NHMRC's 

financial statements. 

Future Australian Accounting Standard Requirements 

The following new standards, amendments to standards and interpretations were issued by the Australian Accounting 

Standards Board prior to the signing of the statement by the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, which 

are expected to have an impact on the NHMRC's financial statements for future reporting period(s). 

Standard/ Interpretation 

Application 

date for the 

entity 1 

Nature of impending change/s in accounting policy and likely impact 

on initial application 

AASB 15 Revenue from 

Contracts with 

Customers – October 

2015 (Compilation) 

1 July 2018 

The final version of AASB 15 Revenue from Contracts with 

Customers was issued in December 2015, to apply in reporting 

periods beginning on or after 1 January 2018. NHMRC will apply 

AASB 15 from 1 July 2018. 

Application of AASB 15 will result in alignment of revenue 

recognition with the satisfaction of performance obligations in 

contracts with customers. 

Transitional provisions require retrospective application with the 

cumulative impact recognised as an adjustment to equity. 

NHMRC has performed a preliminary assessment of AASB 15, and it 

is likely to impact on some revenue streams. Management of 

NHMRC will continue to assess the effect of AASB 15 on these 

revenue streams and the potential quantitative impacts in the coming 

years. 


AASB 16 Leases 1 July 2019 

The Australian Accounting Standards Board issued the final version 

of AASB 16 Leases in February 2016, to apply in reporting periods 

beginning on or after 1 January 2019. NHMRC will apply AASB 16 

from 1 July 2019. 

AASB 16 introduces new criteria for assessing contracts to identify 

leases. It also requires all leases to be recorded on the Statement of 

Financial Position initially as: 

• right-of-use assets measured at cost; and 

• lease liabilities measured at the present value of lease payments 

discounted over the lease term at the rate implicit in the lease or 

NHMRC’s incremental borrowing rate. 

After initial recognition: 

• right-of-use assets are recorded at cost and are adjusted for 

depreciation and impairment, or are subject to revaluation; 

• lease liabilities are adjusted for interest on the lease liability and 

payments made; and 

• both right-of-use assets and lease liabilities are adjusted for lease 

modifications, such as changes to payments or the lease term. 

Leases with terms of 12 months or less and for low-value items will 

be recorded as expenses. 

From 1 July 2019 certain leases previously reported as expenses and 

commitments will be reported as right-of-use assets and lease 

liabilities on the Statement of Financial Position. Transitional 

provisions allow for right-of-use assets and lease liabilities to be 

recorded at the present value of the remaining payments for the lease. 

Right-of-use assets are adjusted for prepayments and accruals as at 30 

June 2019. The cumulative impact will be recognised as an 

adjustment to equity. 

NHMRC has performed a preliminary assessment of AASB 16, and it 

is likely to impact on the Statement of Comprehensive Income and 

Statement of Financial position. Management of NHMRC will 

continue to assess the effect of AASB 16 and the potential 

quantitative impacts in the coming years. 

1. The NHMRC’s expected initial application date is when the accounting standard becomes operative at the beginning of 

NHMRC’s reporting period. 


133

All other new standards, amendments to standards and interpretations that were issued prior to the sign-off date and are 

applicable to future reporting period(s) are not expected to have a future material impact on the NHMRC's financial 

statements. 

Revenue Accounting Policy 

Revenue from Government 

Amounts appropriated for departmental output appropriations for the year (adjusted for any formal additions and reductions) 

are recognised as Revenue from Government when the NHMRC gains control of the appropriation, except for certain 

amounts that relate to activities that are reciprocal in nature, in which case revenue is recognised only when it has been 

earned. Appropriations receivable are recognised at their nominal amounts. 


External contributions 

External contributions consist of: 

a) joint funding contributions, which are contributions from industry and other third party funding organisations to a 

particular project. These contributions are recognised as revenue in the period when the obligation from the third 

party is due; 

b) contributions from industry and third parties, which are untied to projects or a contract. These contributions are 

recognised as revenue on receipt; and 

c) third party contributions to a program managed by the NHMRC. These contributions are recognised when they 

are due, in accordance with the contractual agreement with the third party. 

External contributions are included in sale of goods and rendering of services. 

Other type of revenue 

Revenue from rendering of services is recognised by reference to the stage of completion of contracts at the reporting date. 

The revenue is recognised when: 

a) the amount of revenue, stage of completion and transaction costs incurred can be reliably measured; and 

b) the probable economic benefits associated with the transaction have flowed to the NHMRC. 

The stage of completion of contracts at the reporting date is determined by reference to the proportion that costs incurred to 

date bear to the estimated total costs of the transaction. 

Receivables for goods and services, which have 30 day terms, are recognised at the nominal amounts due less any 

impairment allowance account. Collectability of debts is reviewed at end of the reporting period. Allowances are made 

when collectability of the debt is no longer probable. 

Gains 

Resources Received Free of Charge 

Resources received free of charge are recognised as revenue when, and only when, a fair value can be reliably determined 

and the service would have been purchased if they had not been donated. Use of those resources is recognised as an expense. 

Resources received free of charge are recorded as either revenue or gains depending on their nature. 

Resources received free of charge consist of Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) audit fee and the ANAO does not 

provide services other than financial statement audit. 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Cash is recognised at its nominal amount. Cash and cash equivalents include: 

a) cash on hand; and 

b) cash in special accounts. 

Taxation 

The NHMRC is exempt from all forms of taxation except Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) and the Goods and Services Tax 

(GST). 

134 


Reporting of Administered Activities 

Administered revenues, expenses, assets, liabilities and cash flows are disclosed in the schedule of administered items 

and related notes. 

Except where otherwise stated, administered items are accounted for on the same basis and using the same policies as 

for departmental items, including the application of Australian Accounting Standards. 

Events After the Reporting Period 

Departmental 

No relevant events have occurred after the reporting period date that have the potential to significantly affect the ongoing 

structure and financial activities of the NHMRC. 

Administered 

No relevant events have occurred after the reporting period date that have the potential to significantly affect the 

ongoing structure and financial activities of the NHMRC. 



135

Departmental Financial Performance 

Note 1: Expenses 

2016 2015 

$’000 $’000 

Note 1A: Employee Benefits 

Wages and salaries 15,761 16,834 

Superannuation: 

Defined contribution plans 1,970 2,053 

Defined benefit plans 1,336 1,404 

Leave and other entitlements 3,405 3,209 

Separation and redundancies 592 433 

Total employee benefits 23,064 23,933 


Accounting Policy 

Accounting policies for employee related expenses is contained in the People and Relationships section. 

Note 1B: Suppliers 

Goods and services supplied or rendered 

Consultants 412 709 

Contractors 2,049 1,622 

Committees 3,759 3,709 

Services 2,380 1,766 

Travel 427 402 

IT Services 4,148 5,324 

Stationery 34 42 

Other 473 564 

Total goods and services supplied or rendered 13,682 14,138 

Other suppliers 

Operating lease rentals in connection with 

Minimum lease payments 2,535 2,689 

Workers compensation premiums 241 332 

Total other suppliers 2,776 3,021 

Total suppliers 16,458 17,159 

Leasing commitments 

The NHMRC in its capacity as lessee holds a lease on its Canberra accommodation, which is a 10 year lease, with an option for a 

further 5 years, signed on 1 December 2008. Lease payments increase by 3.75% each year. NHMRC no longer holds a lease on its 

Melbourne accommodation which was included in comparative figures. 

Commitments for minimum lease payments in relation to non-cancellable operating leases 

are payable as follows: 

Within 1 year 3,265 3,363 

Between 1 to 5 years 5,208 9,096 

Total operating lease commitments 8,473 12,459 


A distinction is made between finance leases and operating leases. Finance leases effectively transfer from the lessor to the lessee 

substantially all the risks and rewards incidental to ownership of leased assets. An operating lease is a lease that is not a finance 

lease. In operating leases, the lessor effectively retains substantially all such risks and benefits. NHMRC does not have any finance 

leases as at 30 June 2016 (2015: nil) 

Operating lease payments are expensed on a straight-line basis which is representative of the pattern of benefits derived from the 

leased assets. 

Note 1C: Write-Down and Impairment of Assets 

Asset write-downs and impairment from: 

Impairment of intangible assets - 358 

Total Write-Down and Impairment of Assets - 358 

136 


Income and Expenses Administered on behalf of Government 

Note 2: Administered - Expenses 

2016 2015 

$'000 $'000 

Note 2A: Grants - Medical Research (MREA) 

Public sector 

Australian Government entities 12,137 14,664 

State and Territory Governments 656,602 660,666 

Private sector 

Medical Research Institutes 145,255 154,451 

Private Universities 1,221 1,832 

Total Grants - Medical Research (MREA) 815,215 831,613 

Note 2B: Other expenses incurred in the provision of grants 

Goods and services supplied or rendered 

Funding agreements 9,273 14,300 

Subscriptions 487 380 

Consultants 296 784 

Contractors 3,349 3,028 

Travel 42 50 

IT Services 98 143 

Services 4 8 

Committees 13 29 

Other 6 14 

Total Other expenses incurred in the provision of grants 13,568 18,736 



NHMRC administers a number of grant schemes on behalf of the Government. 

Grant liabilities are recognised to the extent that (i) the services required to be performed by the grantee have been 

performed or (ii) the grant eligibility criteria have been satisfied, but payments due have not been made. 

Payables to grantees are disclosed in Note 4.2. 


137

Departmental Financial Position 

Note 3.1 Financial Assets 

2016 2015 

$’000 $’000 

Note 3.1A: Trade and Other Receivables 

Trade and other receivables 

Goods and services receivables 922 72 

Appropriations receivable - existing programs 15,991 9,897 

GST receivable from the Australian Taxation Office 141 160 

Other 17 20 

Total trade and other receivables 17,071 10,149 


Trade and other receivables expected to be recovered 

No more than 12 months 17,071 10,149 


Trade and other receivables aged as follows 

Not overdue 17,020 10,149 

Overdue by 

0 to 30 days 51 - 


No indicators of impairment were found for trade and other receivables in 2014-2015 or 2015-2016. 


Financial Assets 

The NHMRC classifies its financial assets in the following category: financial assets at fair value through profit or 

loss. 

The classification depends on the nature and purpose of the financial assets and is determined at the time of initial 

recognition. Financial assets are recognised and derecognised at fair value through profit or loss. 

Financial assets are assessed for impairment at the end of each reporting period. If there is objective evidence that 

an impairment loss has been incurred, the amount of the impairment loss is the difference between the carrying 

amount of the asset and the present value of the estimated future cash flows discounted at the current market rate 

for similar assets. 

138 


Note 3.2 Non-Financial Assets 

Note 3.2A Reconciliation of the Opening and Closing Balances of Property, Plant and Equipment and Intangibles 

Reconciliation of the opening and closing balances of property, plant and equipment and intangibles for 2016 

Property, 

plant & 

equipment 

Computer 

software 

internally 

developed 

Computer 

software 

purchased Total 

$’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 

As at 1 July 2015 

Gross book value 12,308 7,782 727 20,817 

Accumulated depreciation, amortisation and impairment (6,547) (4,656) (706) (11,909) 

Total as at 1 July 2015 5,761 3,126 21 8,908 

Additions 

Purchase or internally developed 652 660 46 1,358 

Revaluations recognised in other comprehensive income 51 - - 51 

Depreciation and amortisation (1,038) (852) (41) (1,931) 

Other movements 

Classification adjustment (394) 333 61 - 

Total as at 30 June 2016 5,032 3,267 87 8,386 

Total as at 30 June 2016 represtented by 


Accumulated depreciation, amortisation and impairment (472) (5,627) (747) (6,846) 



Assets are recorded at cost on acquisition, except as stated below. The cost of acquisition includes the fair value of assets transferred in 

exchange and liabilities undertaken. Non-financial assets are initially measured at their fair value plus transaction costs where appropriate. 

No indicators of impairment were found for intangible assets. 

No intangibles are expected to be sold or disposed of within the next 12 months. 


Computer 

Property, plant 

& equipment 

software 

internally 

developed 

Computer 

software 


$’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 





Additions 

Purchase or internally developed 176 - - 176 

Impairments recognised in net cost of services - (358) - (358) 


Impairment loss (21) - - (21) 







139

Note 3.2 Non-Financial Assets 

Note 3.2A Reconciliation of the Opening and Closing Balances of Property, Plant and Equipment and Intangibles 



Property, 

plant & 

equipment 

Computer 

software 

internally 

developed 

Computer 

software 


$’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 





Additions 

Purchase or internally developed 652 660 46 1,358 

Revaluations recognised in other comprehensive income 51 - - 51 


Other movements 

Classification adjustment (394) 333 61 - 




Accumulated depreciation, amortisation and impairment (472) (5,627) (747) (6,846) 


Assets are recorded at cost on acquisition, except as stated below. The cost of acquisition includes the fair value of assets transferred in 

exchange and liabilities undertaken. Non-financial assets are initially measured at their fair value plus transaction costs where appropriate. 

No indicators of impairment were found for intangible assets. 

No intangibles are expected to be sold or disposed of within the next 12 months. 


Computer 

Property, plant 

& equipment 

software 

internally 

developed 

Computer 

software 


$’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 





Additions 

Purchase or internally developed 176 - - 176 

Impairments recognised in net cost of services - (358) - (358) 


Impairment loss (21) - - (21) 






140 


Revaluations of non-financial assets 

All revaluations were conducted in accordance with the revaluation policy stated at Note 7.4. 

On 31 March 2016, an independent valuer conducted the revaluations. 

Contractual commitments for the acquisition of property, plant, equipment and intangible assets are 

payable as follows: 

2016 2015 

$’000 $’000 

Within 1 year 1,286 539 

Between 1 to 5 years 1,212 429 

Total property, plant, equipment and intangible assets commitments 2,498 968 

NHMRC has commitments in place for the purchase of a video conferencing system and an enhanced reporting system (datamart). 

Note 3.2B: Inventories 

Inventories held for distribution 200 201 

Total inventories 200 201 

During 2015-16, $1,890 of inventory held for distribution was recognised as an expense. (2014-15: $78,894) 

No items of inventory were recognised at fair value less cost to sell. 


Inventory is comprised of the NHMRC health and medical research publications. All publications are free of charge and distributed upon request to the 

general public, health professionals, scientific and educational organisations, special interest groups and the wider public. The inventory held for 

distribution is valued at cost, adjusted for any loss of service potential. 


Note 3.2C: Other Non-Financial Assets 

Prepayments 984 952 

Total other non-financial assets 984 952 

Other non-financial assets expected to be recovered 

No more than 12 months 984 952 

Total other non-financial assets 984 952 

No indicators of impairment were found for other non-financial assets. 


141


Asset recognition threshold 

Purchases of property, plant and equipment are recognised initially at cost in the statement of financial position, except for 

information technology equipment purchases less than $500, leasehold improvements less than $50,000, and all other purchases 

less than $2,000. Purchases below these thresholds are expensed in the year of acquisition (other than where they form part of a 

group of similar items which are significant in total). 

The initial cost of an asset includes an estimate of the cost of dismantling and removing the item and restoring the site on which it 

is located. This is particularly relevant to ‘makegood’ provisions in Note 3.4 taken up by the NHMRC where there exists an 

obligation to restore premises to condition prior to fitout. These costs are included in the value of the makegood asset with a 

corresponding provision for the ‘makegood’ recognised. 

Revaluations 

Fair values of each sub-class of assets are determined as shown below. 


Assets Sub-Class 

Office Equipment 

Furniture and fitting 

Computer equipment 

Leasehold improvement 

Fair value measured at 

Depreciated replacement cost 


Market selling price 


Following initial recognition at cost property, plant and equipment are carried at fair value less subsequent accumulated 

depreciation and accumulated impairment losses. Valuations are conducted with sufficient frequency to ensure that the carrying 

amounts of assets do not materially differ from the assets’ fair values as at the reporting date. The regularity of independent 

valuations depended upon the volatility of movements in market values for the relevant assets. 

Revaluation adjustments are made on a class basis. Any revaluation increment is credited to equity under the heading of asset 

revaluation reserve, except to the extent that it reverses a previous revaluation decrement of the same asset class that was 

previously recognised through the surplus/deficit. Revaluation decrements for a class of assets are recognised directly in the 

surplus/deficit except to the extent that they reversed a previous revaluation increment for that class. 

Any accumulated depreciation as at the revaluation date is eliminated against the gross carrying amount of the asset and the asset 

restated to the revalued amount. 

Depreciation 

Depreciable property, plant and equipment assets are written-off to their estimated residual values over their estimated useful lives 

to the NHMRC using, in all cases, the straight-line method of depreciation. 

Depreciation rates (useful lives), residual values and methods are reviewed at each reporting date and necessary adjustments are 

recognised in the current, or current and future reporting periods, as appropriate. 

Depreciation rates applying to each sub-class of depreciable asset are based on the following useful lives: 

Assets Sub-Class 2016 2015 

Office Equipment 5 years 5 years 

Furniture and Fitting 10 years 10 years 

Computer Equipment 3 years 3 years 

Leasehold Improvement Lease term Lease term 

Impairment 

All assets were assessed for impairment at 30 June 2016. Where indications of impairment exist, the asset’s recoverable amount is 

estimated and an impairment adjustment made if the asset’s recoverable amount is less than its carrying amount. 

De-recognition 

An item of property, plant and equipment is derecognised upon disposal or when no further future economic benefits are expected 

from its use or disposal. 

Intangibles 

Intangible assets comprise internally developed software for internal use and purchased software. These assets are carried at cost 

less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses. 

Software is amortised on a straight-line basis over its anticipated useful life. The useful lives of the NHMRC’s software are 2 to 7 

years (2014-15: 2 to 7 years). 

All software assets were assessed for indications of impairment at 30 June 2016. 

142 


Note 3.3 Other Payables 

2016 2015 

$’000 $’000 

Note 3.3 Other Payables 

Salaries and Wages 179 654 

Superannuation 13 112 

Lease incentive 267 378 

Prepayments received/unearned income 1,801 122 

Other 125 76 

Total other payables 2,385 1,342 

Other payables expected to be settled 


More than 12 months 267 257 

Total other payables 2,385 1,342 


Financial liabilities are classified as either financial liabilities ‘at fair value through profit or loss’ or other financial liabilities. 

Financial liabilities are recognised and derecognised upon ‘trade date’. 

Note 3.4 Provision for Makegood Obligations 

2016 2015 

$’000 $’000 

Note 3.4 Provision for makegood obligations 

Provisions are expected to be settled in: 

No more than 12 months - - 

More than 12 months 893 629 

Total provision for makegood obligations 893 629 


Provision for Total 

makegood 

$’000 $’000 

Carrying amount 1 July 2015 629 629 

Additional provisions made - - 

Amounts used (15) (15) 

Amounts reversed (47) (47) 

Revaluation 309 309 

Unwinding of discount or change in discount rate 17 17 

Closing Balance as at 30 June 2016 893 893 

The NHMRC currently has one (2015: two) agreement for the leasing of premises which includes a provision 

requiring the NHMRC to restore the premises to their original condition at the conclusion of the lease. The NHMRC 

has made a provision to reflect the present value of this obligation. 


143

Assets and Liabilities Administered on behalf of Government 

Note 4.1 Administered - Financial Assets 

2016 2015 

$'000 $'000 

Note 4.1A: Trade and Other Receivables 

Services receivables 

Services receivables 648 900 

Total services receivables 648 900 


Other receivables 

GST receivable from the Australian Taxation Office - 19 

Total other receivables - 19 

Total trade and other receivables 648 919 

No trade and other receivables were overdue in 2014-2015 or 2015-2016 

No indicators of impairment were found for trade and other receivables in 2014-2015 or 2015-2016. 

Note 4.2 Administered - Payables 

2016 2015 

$'000 $'000 

Note 4.2A: Grants - Medical Research (MREA) 

Public sector 

Australian Government entities 223 436 

State and Territory Governments 5,733 15,944 

Private sector 

Medical Research Institutes 352 474 

Total grants 6,308 16,854 

Settlement is usually made according to the terms and conditions of each grant. This is usually within 30 days of 

performance or eligibility. 

Note 4.2B: Other Payables 

GST payable 70 - 

Total other payables 70 - 

144 


Funding 

Note 5.1 Appropriations 

Note 5.1A: Annual Appropriations ('Recoverable GST exclusive') 

Annual Appropriations for 2016 

Appropriation Act 

PGPA Act 

Appropriation 

applied in 2016 

Annual 

Appropriation 1 Advance to the 

Finance Minister 

Section 74 

receipts 

Section 75 

Transfers 

Total 

appropriation 

(current and 

prior years) Variance 2 

$'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 

Departmental 

Ordinary annual services 40,255 - 2,476 - 42,731 (40,706) 2,025 

Capital Budget 3 4,186 - - - 4,186 (1,358) 2,828 

Total departmental 44,441 - 2,476 - 46,917 (42,064) 4,853 

Administered 

Ordinary annual services 

Administered items 840,583 - - - 840,583 (840,583) - 

Total administered 840,583 - - - 840,583 (840,583) - 

1. In 2015-16, no amounts of appropriation have been withheld or quarantined. 

2. In 2015-16, variance against ordinary annual services largely relates to budgeted project expenditure not occurring, anticipated to occur in 2016-17. The variance against capital budget is 

due mainly to delays in progressing the capital component of the Simplified and Consistent Health and Medical Research budget measure. 

3. Departmental Capital Budgets are appropriated through Acts (No.1,3,5). They form part of ordinary annual services, and are not separately identified in the Appropriation Acts. 

Annual Appropriations for 2015 

Appropriation Act 

PGPA Act 

Appropriation 

Annual 

Appropriation 1 Advance to the 

Finance Minister Section 74 Section 75 Total appropriation 

applied in 2015 

(current and 

prior years) Variance 2 

$'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 

Departmental 

Ordinary annual services 40,722 - 474 - 41,196 (41,477) (281) 

Capital Budget 3 1,959 - - - 1,959 - 1,959 

Total departmental 42,681 - 474 - 43,155 (41,477) 1,678 

Administered 

Ordinary annual services 

Administered items 905,715 - - - 905,715 (905,715) - 

Total administered 905,715 - - - 905,715 (905,715) - 


1. In 2014-15, there was an amount of $107,053.28 that was quarantined. NHMRC was unable to spend the total funding allocated during the 2014-15 PAES to spend on redundancies. 

NHMRC received $540,000 for one year towards the 2013-14 MYEFO measure Funding for pre-existing measures affecting the public sector. In 2014-15, there were no adjustments that met 

the recognition criteria of a formal addition or reduction in revenue (in accordance with FRR Part 6 Div 3) but at law the appropriations had not been amended before the end of the reporting 

period. 

2. In 2014-15, there were no material variances. 

3. Departmental Capital Budgets are appropriated through Acts (No.1,3,5). They form part of ordinary annual services, and are not separately identified in the Appropriation Acts. 


Amounts appropriated which are designated as ‘equity injections’ for a year (less any formal reductions) and Departmental Capital Budgets (DCBs) are recognised directly in contributed equity in that year. 

Note 5.1B: Unspent Departmental Annual Appropriations ('Recoverable GST exclusive') 

Departmental 

2016 2015 

$'000 $'000 

Appropriation Act (No. 1) 2015-16 1 11,608 - 

Appropriation Act (No. 1) 2014-15 - 8,220 

Appropriation Act (No. 1) 2015-16 - Capital Budget (DCB) 

4,047 - 

Appropriation Act (No. 1) 2014-15 - Capital Budget (DCB) 

746 1,959 

Total departmental 16,401 10,179 

1. Includes cash at bank and appropriation receivables 


145

Note 5.2 Special Accounts 

Note 5.2 Special Accounts (Recoverable GST exclusive) 


2016 2015 

$'000 $'000 

Balance brought forward from previous period 

131,417 134,148 

Increases 

Appropriation credited to special account 836,043 894,899 

Costs recovered 3,245 3,585 

Other receipts 6,204 3,293 

Total increases 

Available for payments 

Decreases 

Administered 

Total administered 

Total decreases 

Total balance carried to the next period 

Note: 

1. Appropriation: Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013; section 80 


Endowment Account 1 

845,492 901,777 

976,909 1,035,925 

825,490 904,508 

825,490 904,508 

825,490 904,508 

151,419 131,417 

Establishing Instrument: National Health and Medical Research Council Act 1992; section 49 

Purpose: to provide assistance (subject to the National Health and Medical Research Council Act 

1992 ): 

- to Departments of the Commonwealth, or of a State or Territory, engaged in medical research; 

- to universities for the purpose of medical research; 

- to institutions and persons engaged in medical research; and 

- in the training of persons in medical research. 

146 


Note 5.3 Cash Flow Reconciliation 

Reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents as per statement of financial 

position and cash flow statement 

2016 2015 

$’000 $’000 

Cash and cash equivalents as per: 

Cash flow statement 409 389 

Statement of financial position 409 389 

Discrepancy - - 

Reconciliation of net cost of services to net cash from operating activities: 

Net (cost of) / contribution by services (39,792) (42,947) 

Revenue from Government 40,237 40,722 

Adjustments for non-cash items 

Depreciation/amortisation 1,931 2,268 

Net write down of non-financial assets - 379 

Movements in assets / liabilities 

Assets 

(Increase) / decrease in net receivables (4,088) (611) 

(Increase) / decrease in inventories 1 79 

(Increase) / decrease in prepayments (32) 182 

Liabilities 

Increase / (decrease) in employee provisions 427 (611) 

Increase / (decrease) in other provisions 264 33 

Increase / (decrease) in supplier payables 1,078 568 

Net cash from/(used by) operating activities 26 62 



147

Note 5.4 Administered - Cash Flow Reconciliation 

Reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents as per administered financial position and 

administered cash flow statement 

2016 2015 

$'000 

$'000 

Cash and cash equivalents as per 

Administered cash flow statement - - 

Administered schedule of assets and liabilities - - 

Discrepancy - - 


Reconciliation of net cost of services to net cash from/(used by) operating activities 

Net (cost of)/contribution by services (810,333) (835,471) 

Movements in assets and liabilities 

Assets 

Decrease/(Increase) in net receivables 271 1,598 

Liabilities 

(Decrease) in other payable (10,476) (74,630) 

Net cash (used by) operating activities (820,538) (908,503) 

148 


People and Relationships 

Note 6.1 Provisions 

2016 2015 

$’000 $’000 

Note 6.1: Employee Provisions 

Leave 5,675 5,248 

Total employee provisions 5,675 5,248 

Employee provisions are expected to be settled in: 


More than 12 months 3,555 2,588 

Total employee provisions 5,675 5,248 

Significant Accounting Judgements and Estimates 

In the process of applying the accounting policies listed in this note, the NHMRC has made the following judgements that have the most 

significant impact on the amounts recorded in the financial statements. The estimated leave provisions involve assumptions based on the 

expected tenure of existing staff, patterns of leave claims and payouts, future salary movements and discount rates. 

No accounting assumptions or estimates have been identified that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying 

amounts of assets and liabilities within the next reporting period. 

Accounting Policies 

Employee benefits 

Liabilities for ‘short-term employee benefits’ (as defined in AASB 119 Employee Benefits) and termination benefits due within twelve months of the end of 

the reporting period are measured at their nominal amounts. 


Leave 

The liability for employee benefits includes provision for annual leave and long service leave. No provision has been made for sick leave as all sick leave is 

non-vesting and the average sick leave taken in future years by employees of the NHMRC is estimated to be less than the annual entitlement for sick leave. 

The leave liabilities are calculated on the basis of employees’ remuneration at the estimated salary rates that will be applied at the time the leave is taken, 

including the NHMRC’s employer superannuation contribution rates to the extent that the leave is likely to be taken during service rather than paid out on 

termination. 

The liability for long service leave is recognised and measured at the present value of the estimated future cash flow to be made in respect of all employees at 

30 June 2016. The estimate of the present value of the liability takes into account attrition rates and pay increases through promotion and inflation. 

Separation and Redundancy 

Provision is made for separation and redundancy benefit payments. The entity recognises a provision for termination when it has developed a detailed formal 

plan for the terminations and has informed those employees affected that it will carry out the terminations. 

Superannuation 

The NHMRC's staff are members of the Commonwealth Superannuation Scheme (CSS), the Public Sector Superannuation Scheme (PSS) or the PSS 

accumulation plan (PSSap). 

The CSS and PSS are defined benefit schemes for the Australian Government. The PSSap is a defined contribution scheme. 

The liability for defined benefits is recognised in the financial statements of the Australian Government and is settled by the Australian Government in due 

course. This liability is reported in the Department of Finance's administered schedules and notes. 

The NHMRC makes employer contributions to the employee superannuation scheme at rates determined by an actuary to be sufficient to meet the current cost 

to the Government, and accounts for the contributions as if they were contributions to defined contribution plans. 

The liability for superannuation recognised as at 30 June represents outstanding contributions for the final fortnight of the year. 


149

Note 6.2 Senior Management Personnel Remuneration 

Note 6.2 Senior Executive Remuneration Expenses for the Reporting Period 

2016 2015 

$’000 $’000 

Short-term employee benefits: 

Salary 1,477 2,082 

Motor vehicle allowance 129 168 

Other 116 62 

Total short-term employee benefits 1,722 2,312 


Post-employment benefits: 

Superannuation 294 404 

Total post-employment benefits 294 404 

Other long-term employee benefits: 

Annual leave accrued 120 168 

Long-service leave 38 58 

Total other long-term employee benefits 158 226 

Termination benefits 285 - 

Total senior executive remuneration expenses 2,459 2,942 

The total number of senior management personnel that are included in the above table are seven individuals (2015: 11 individuals). 

150 


Managing Uncertainties 

Note 7.1 Contingent Assets and Liabilities 

NHMRC has internal controls and appropriate processes in place to identify any contingencies that may arise. 

Quantifiable Contingencies 

As at 30 June 2016 the NHMRC has no contingent assets (2015: nil). 

As at 30 June 2016 the NHMRC has the following contingent liabilities: 

The NHMRC has in place a deed of standing offer with a panel of investigators to provide investigation services if serious 

breaches of the Research Involving Human Embryos Act 2002 or the Prohibition of Human Cloning for Reproduction Act 2002 

are identified. 

The consequence of the contingency being triggered is estimated to be a cost of approximately $150,000. 

This quantifiable contingent liability was in place as at 30 June 2015. 

Unquantifiable Contingencies 

At 30 June 2016, the NHMRC had no unquantifiable contingencies. 

Administered - Contingent Assets and Liabilities 

Quantifiable Administered Contingencies 

As at 30 June 2016 the NHMRC has the following quantifiable administered contingent asset (2015: nil): 


The NHMRC understands there is an Administering Institution investigation into a grant misconduct, which may result in a recovery 

of up to $500,000. 

As at 30 June 2016, the NHMRC did not have any quantifiable administered contingent liabilities (2015: nil). 

Unquantifiable Administered Contingencies 

At 30 June 2016, the NHMRC had no unquantifiable administered contingencies (2015: nil). 


Contingent liabilities and contingent assets are not recognised in the statement of financial position but are reported in the relevant schedules and 

notes. They may arise from uncertainty as to the existence of a liability or asset, or represent a liability or asset in respect of which the amount 

cannot be reliably measured. Contingent assets are disclosed when settlement is probable but not virtually certain and contingent liabilities are 

disclosed when settlement is greater than remote. 


151

Note 7.2 Financial Instruments 

2016 2015 

$'000 $'000 

Note 7.2A: Categories of Financial Instruments 


Loans and receivables 

Cash and cash equivalents 409 389 

Trade receivables 939 92 

Total loans and receivables 1,348 481 

Total financial assets 1,348 481 


Financial Liabilities 

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost 

Trade creditors 125 564 

Other payables 2,527 1,828 

Total financial liabilities measured at amortised cost 2,652 2,392 

Total financial liabilities 2,652 2,392 

The NHMRC did not receive any income or incur any expense related to financial assets or financial liabilities disclosed above 

for the period ended 30 June 2016 (2015: Nil) 


The NHMRC classifies its financial assets in the following category: financial assets at fair value through profit or loss. 

The classification depends on the nature and purpose of the financial assets and is determined at the time of initial recognition. Financial assets 

are recognised and derecognised at fair value through profit or loss. 

Financial assets are assessed for impairment at the end of each reporting period. If there is objective evidence that an impairment loss has been 

incurred, the amount of the impairment loss is the difference between the carrying amount of the asset and the present value of the estimated 

future cash flows discounted at the current market rate for similar assets. 

Note 7.2B: Fair Value of Financial Instruments 

Carrying Fair Carrying Fair 

amount value amount value 

2016 2016 2015 2015 

$'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 


Cash and cash equivalents 409 409 389 389 

Trade and other receivables 939 939 92 92 

Total 1,348 1,348 481 481 


Trade creditors 125 125 564 564 

Other payables 2,527 2,527 1,828 1,828 

Total 2,652 2,652 2,392 2,392 

There are no differences between carrying amount and fair value for 2016 and 2015 for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. 

152 


Note 7.2 Financial Instruments - Continued 

7.2C Credit risk 

The NHMRC is exposed to minimal credit risk as loans and receivables were cash and trade receivables. The maximum exposure to credit risk is 

the risk that arises from potential default of a debtor. 

This amount is equal to the total amount of trade and other receivables (2016: $939,000 and 2015: $92,000) 

The NHMRC managed its credit risk by undertaking background checks prior to allowing a debtor relationship. In addition, the NHMRC had 

policies and procedures that guided employees debt recovery techniques that were to be applied. 

NHMRC holds no collateral to mitigate against credit risk. 

Credit quality of financial instruments not past due or individually determined as impaired 

Not Past Due 

Nor Impaired 

Not Past Due 

Nor Impaired 

Past due or 

impaired 

Past due or 

impaired 

2016 2015 2016 2015 

$'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 

Trade receivables 888 92 51 - 

Total 888 92 51 - 

Ageing of financial assets that were past due but not impaired in 2016 

0 to 30 days 31 to 60 days 61 to 90 days 90+ days Total 

$’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 

Trade receivables 51 - - - - 

Total 51 - - - - 


0 to 30 days 31 to 60 days 61 to 90 days 90+ days Total 

$’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 

Trade receivables - - - - - 

Total - - - - - 


Note 7.2D: Liquidity risk 

NHMRC financial liabilities are payables, loans from government, finance leases and other interest bearing liabilities. The exposure to liquidity 

risk was based on the notion that the NHMRC will encounter difficulty in meeting its obligations associated with financial liabilities. This was 

highly unlikely as NHMRC is appropriated funding from the Australian Government and NHMRC manages its budgeted funds to ensure it has 

adequate funds to meet payments as they fall due. In addition, NHMRC has policies and procedures in place to ensure timely payments were 

made when due and has no past experience of default. 

Maturities for non-derivative financial liabilities 2016 

On within 1 1 to 5 >5 

demand year years years Total 

$'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 

Trade creditors 125 - - - 125 

Total 125 - - - 125 


On within 1 1 to 5 > 5 

demand year years years Total 

$'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 

Trade creditors 564 - - - 564 

Total 564 - - - 564 

NHMRC is appropriated funding from the Australian Government. The NHMRC manages its budgeted funds to ensure it has adequate funds to 

meet payments as they fall due. In addition, the NHMRC has policies in place to ensure timely payment are made when due and has no past 

experience of default. 

NHMRC has no derivative financial liabilities in both the current and prior year. 

Note 7.2E: Market risk 

The NHMRC held basic financial instruments that did not expose the NHMRC to certain market risks. The NHMRC was not exposed to 

'Currency risk', 'Other price risk' or 'Interest rate risk'. 


153

Note 7.3 Administered - Financial Instruments 

2016 2015 

$'000 $'000 

Note 7.3A Categories of Financial Instruments 


Loans and receivables: 

Cash on hand or on deposit - - 

Goods and services receivable 648 900 

Total loans and receivables 648 900 

Total financial assets 648 900 



Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost 

Suppliers payable - - 

Grants payable 6,308 16,854 

Total financial liabilities measured at amortised cost 6,308 16,854 

Total financial liabilities 6,308 16,854 

Note 7.3B Fair Value of Financial Instruments 

Carrying Fair Carrying Fair 

amount value amount value 

2016 2016 2015 2015 

$'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 


Cash and cash equivalents - - - - 

Trade receivables 648 648 900 900 

Total 648 648 900 900 


Supplier payable - - - - 

Grant payable 6,308 6,308 16,854 16,854 

Total 6,308 6,308 16,854 16,854 

There are no differences between carrying amount and fair value for 2016 and 2015 for Financial Assets 

and Financial Liabilities 

154 


Note 7.3 Administered - Financial Instruments (continued) 

Note 7.3C Credit Risk 

The administered activities of the NHMRC were not exposed to a high level of credit risk as the financial assets are trade and other receivables. 

The NHMRC manages its credit risk by undertaking background checks prior to allowing a debtor relationship. In addition, the NHMRC has 

policies and procedures that guide employees debt recovery techniques. 

Credit quality of financial assets not past due or individually determined as impaired 

Not Past 

Due Nor 

Impaired 

Not Past 

Due Nor 

Impaired 

Past due or 

impaired 

Past due or 

impaired 

2016 2015 2016 2015 

$'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 

Goods and services receivable 648 900 - - 

Total 648 900 - - 


0 to 30 

days 

31 to 60 

days 

61 to 90 

days 90+ days Total 

$’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 

Goods and services receivable - - - - - 

Total - - - - - 


0 to 30 days 

31 to 60 

days 61 to 90 days 90+ days Total 

$’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 

Goods and services receivable - - - - - 

Total - - - - - 


Note 7.3D Liquidity Risk 

The NHMRC's financial liabilities are grants payable. The exposure to liquidity risk is based on the notion that the NHMRC will encounter 

difficulty in meeting its obligations associated with financial liabilities. 

This is highly unlikely as the NHMRC is appropriated funding from the Australian Government and the NHMRC manages its budgeted funds 

to ensure it has adequate funds to meet payments as they fall due. In addition, the NHMRC has policies in place to ensure timely payment are 

made when due and has no past experience of default. 


within 1 

year Total 

$'000 $'000 


Total 6,308 6,308 


within 1 

year Total 

$'000 $'000 


Total 16,854 16,854 

NHMRC had no derivative financial liabilities in both the current and prior year. 

Note 7.3E Market Risk 

The NHMRC held basic financial instruments that did not expose the NHMRC to certain market risks. The NHMRC was not exposed to 

'Currency risk', 'Other price risk' or 'Interest rate risk'. 


155

Note 7.4 Fair Value Measurement 

The following tables provide an analysis of assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value. 

The different levels of the fair value hierarchy are defined below. 

Level 1: Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the entity can access at measurement date. 

Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. 

Level 3: Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. 


NHMRC engaged the service of Australian Valuation Solutions (AVS) to conduct desktop revaluation of all non-financial assets at 31 March 2016 and has relied upon those outcomes to 

establish carrying amounts. An annual assessment is undertaken to determine whether the carrying amount of the assets is materially different from the fair value. Comprehensive valuations 

carried out at least once every three years. AVS has provided written assurance to NHMRC that the models developed are in compliance with AASB 13. 

The methods utilised to determine and substantiate the unobservable inputs are derived and evaluated as follows: 


Physical depreciation and obsolescence - assets that do not transact with enough frequency or transparency to develop objective opinions of value from observable market evidence have been 

measured utilising the depreciated replacement cost approach. Under the depreciated replacement cost approach the estimated cost to replace the asset is calculated and then adjusted to take 

into account physical depreciation and obsolescence. Physical depreciation and obsolescence has been determined based on professional judgement regarding physical, economic and external 

obsolescence factors relevant to the asset under consideration. For all leasehold improvement assets, the consumed economic benefit/asset obsolescence deduction is determined based on the 

term of the associated lease. 

NHMRC's policy is to recognise transfers into and transfers out of fair value hierarchy levels as at the end of the reporting period. 

7.4A: Fair Value Measurement 

Fair value measurements 

at the end of the reporting period 

2016 2015 

$'000 

$'000 

Category (Level 

1, 2 or 3) 


Plant and equipment 1 107 - 2 

Valuation technique(s) and inputs used 

Market Approach: This approach seeks to estimate the fair value 

of an asset with reference to recent market transactions involving 

identical or comparable assets. 

Inputs: Prices and other relevant information generated by market 

transactions involving plant and equipment assets were considered. 

Plant and equipment 1 2,008 2,399 3 

Depreciated Replacement Cost: The amount a market participant 

would be prepared to pay to acquire or construct a substitute asset of 

comparable utility, adjusted for physical depreciation and 

obsolescence. 

Inputs: Current costs per square metre of floor area relevant to the 

location of the asset. Physical depreciation and obsolescence has 

been determined based on the term of the associated lease. 

Leasehold improvements 2 2,917 3,362 3 

Depreciated Replacement Cost: The amount a market participant 

would be prepared to pay to acquire or construct a substitute asset of 

comparable utility, adjusted for physical depreciation and 

obsolescence. 

Inputs: Current costs per square metre of floor area relevant to the 

location of the asset. Physical depreciation and obsolescence has 

been determined based on the term of the associated lease. 

Total non-financial assets 5,032 5,761 

Total fair value measurements of assets in the statement of 

financial statements 5,032 5,761 

1. No change in valuation technique occurred during the period 

2. Relationship of unobservable inputs to fair value: greater consumption of economic benefit or increased obsolescence lowers fair value 

7.4B: Reconciliation for Recurring Level 3 Fair Value Measurements 

Plant and Equipment 


Leasehold Improvements 

Total 

2016 2015 2016 2015 2016 2015 

$'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 $'000 

As at 1 July 2,399 3,162 3,362 3,886 5,761 7,048 

Total gains/(losses) recognised in net cost of services 1 (147) (918) (826) (524) (973) (1,442) 

Total gains/(losses) recognised in other comprehensive 

income 2 - - - - - - 

Purchases 647 176 - - 647 176 

Other movements (net effect of revaluation, reclassification of 

PP&E to intangibles and transfers out of Level 3) 

(789) (21) 381 - (408) (21) 

Transfers into Level 3 3 - - - - - - 

Transfers out of Level 3 4 (102) - - - (102) - 

Total as at 30 June 2,008 2,399 2,917 3,362 4,925 5,761 

1. These gains/(losses) are presented in the Statement of Comprehensive Income under Depreciation and Amortisation and Write Down and Impairment of Assets. 

2. These gains/(losses) are presented in the Statement of Comprehensive Income under Other Changes in Asset Revaluation Reserves. 

3. There have been no transfers into level 3 during the year. 

4. There have been 77 transfers out of level 3 during the year. 

156 


Other Information 

Note 8: Reporting of Outcomes 

The NHMRC contributes to one outcome as described in Overview Note. All income and costs detailed in the statement of 

comprehensive income and Administered schedule of comprehensive income are attributed to this one outcome. 

All assets and liabilities detailed in the statement of financial position and Administered schedule of assets and liabilities are 

attributed to this one outcome. 



157

Abdullah, Year 6 

158 


6 

PART 

APPENDICES 

Appendix 1: Executive Biographies 160 

Appendix 2: The Council of the NHMRC 162 

Appendix 3: Research Committee 169 

Appendix 4: Australian Health Ethics Committee 170 

Appendix 5: Embryo Research Licensing Committee 171 

Appendix 6: Health Translation Advisory Committee 172 

Appendix 7: Health Innovation Advisory Committee 173 

Appendix 8: Commissioner of Complaints Biography 174 

Appendix 9: Public Consultations 175 

Appendix 10: Glossary and Acronyms 176 

Appendix 11: Compliance Check List 178 

Index185 


APPENDIX 1: EXECUTIVE BIOGRAPHIES 

PART 6 APPENDICES 



Professor Anne Kelso is the 

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) 

of NHMRC. 

Professor Kelso was 

previously Director of the 

WHO Collaborating Centre for 

Reference and Research on 

Influenza in Melbourne, a role she 

held from 2007–15. Her earlier 

research career was spent at the 

Swiss Institute for Experimental 

Cancer Research, the Walter and 

Eliza Hall Institute of Medical 

Research and the Queensland 

Institute of Medical Research, 

undertaking research in the field 

of immunology. From 2000–06, 

she was also Director/CEO of the 

Cooperative Research Centre for 

Vaccine Technology. 

She has previously served as 

President of the Australasian 

Society for Immunology, 

as Secretary-General of 

the International Union of 

Immunological Societies and as 

a member of several governing 

boards and advisory groups, 

including the Council of QUT, 

the Boards of the Telethon Kids 

Institute and the Florey Institute 

of Neuroscience and Mental 

Health, and committees advising 

the WHO and the Australian 

Government on influenza. She 

was appointed Officer in the 

Order of Australia in June 2007 

for service to science. 

General Manager 

Tony Kingdon 

Mr Kingdon is the General 

Manager at the NHMRC. He is 

responsible for overseeing the 

operation of NHMRC. 

Mr Kingdon joined NHMRC in 

February 2011. Previously, he 

worked for many years with the 

Department of Health on a wide 

range of topics including, acute 

care, medical services, hearing 

services and international health. 

Prior to joining NHMRC, Mr 

Kingdon was head of the then 

Acute Care Division which had 

responsibility for providing advice 

on hospital funding, private 

health, medical indemnity and 

dental services. 

Executive Director, Corporate 

Operations and Information 

Tony Krizan FCPA 

Mr Krizan is the Chief Financial 

Officer and head of Corporate 

Operations and Information, 

which includes business 

operations, human resources, 

finance, information and 

communication technology and 

data reporting and analytics. 

Mr Krizan has tertiary 

qualifications in financial 

administration and management, 

and is a Fellow of CPA Australia. 

He worked in a number of 

industries prior to his tertiary 

study, and before joining the 

Australian Public Service with the 

Department of Finance. Over a 

period of nearly twenty-seven 

years, he also worked in 

Employment, Education and 

Training and Health and Ageing 

in policy development, program 

management and corporate 

operations roles. 

160 


Executive Director, Evidence, 

Advice and Governance 

Samantha Robertson 

Ms Robertson is the Executive 

Director of Evidence, Advice and 

Governance. She is responsible 

for assisting the CEO deliver her 

key statutory responsibilities 

to develop and approve ethical, 

clinical and public health 

guidelines, and provide advice 

to the community on health 

issues of significance, such as 

the Australian Dietary Guidelines. 

She is also responsible for 

strategic planning, corporate 

governance and the NHMRC 

work on streamlining clinical trial 

ethics and governance processes. 

Ms Robertson has over 25 years 

of experience in health sector 

administration with the Australian 

Commonwealth Government. 

She is a former advisor for a 

health minister, has been a senior 

advisor in the Department of 

Prime Minister and Cabinet, and 

was an Assistant Secretary in 

the Department of Health and 

Ageing for over six years, before 

commencing in her current 

position in 2011. 

Executive Director, Research 

Policy and Translation 

Alan Singh 

Mr Singh is the Executive 

Director, Research Policy and 

Translation. He has responsibility 

for developing and leading a 

range of research policy and 

translation activities, including the 

strategy for Aboriginal and Torres 

Strait Islander health research, 

a review of the structure of 

NHMRC’s grant program, 

Advanced Health Research and 

Translation Centres, Partnership 

Centres and leadership in 

the development of clinical 

practice guidelines. 

Mr Singh has worked on issues 

in the health portfolio for 

20 years, including three years 

at Prime Minister and Cabinet. 

He led the policy taskforce at the 

Department of Health for Health 

Reform Mark 1 (under Prime 

Minister Rudd), and also steered 

through a $1.5 billion package 

for mental health reform in the 

2011–12 budget. 

Executive Director, Research 

Programs 

Dr Tony Willis 

Dr Willis is the Executive Director, 

Research Programs Branch. This 

includes responsibility for delivering 

NHMRC’s funding schemes, 

including managing the peer 

review process and supporting 

strategic research activities and 

international collaborations. 

Dr Willis, who joined NHMRC in 

March 2010, completed a PhD in 

biology at the Australian National 

University in 1994, before moving 

to Imperial College, London, 

to continue research as a postdoctoral 

fellow. On returning to 

Australia in 1997, he worked as a 

research scientist at CSIRO for five 

years, before joining the Office of 

the Gene Technology Regulator to 

develop and provide policy advice 

relating to biotechnology and 

biosecurity. 

Dr Willis joined the Department of 

Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) 

in 2005, where he had policy 

responsibility for the Biological 

Weapons Convention and related 

biosecurity/bioterrorism issues. He 

played a leading role in establishing 

DFAT’s chemical, biological, 

radiological and nuclear (CBRN) 

counter-terrorism program, which 

he headed for most of 2008 before 

transferring to the Department of 

the Prime Minister and Cabinet, 

where he continued to develop, 

and provide strategic policy advice 

on CBRN threats. 



161

APPENDIX 2: THE COUNCIL OF THE NHMRC 

The chair of the Council is Professor Bruce Robinson AM 

Professor Kathryn North AM – Research Committee chair 

Professor Ian Olver AM – Australian Health Ethics Committee chair 

Professor Graeme Samuel AC – Health Innovation Advisory Committee chair 

Professor Sharon Lewin – Health Translation Advisory Committee chair 


CHIEF MEDICAL AND HEALTH OFFICERS: 

Professor Chris Baggoley AO – Chief Medical Officer, Australian Government 

Dr Kerry Chant PSM – New South Wales 

Professor Charles Guest (from 1 May 2016) – Victoria 

Dr Paul Kelly – Australian Capital Territory 

Professor Dinesh Arya – Northern Territory 

Professor Paddy Phillips PSM – South Australia 

Professor Gary Geelhoed – Western Australia 

Professor Anthony Lawler – Tasmania 

Dr Jeannette Young PSM – Queensland 

MEMBERS: 

Professor Sandra Eades brings expertise in the area of the health needs of Aboriginal persons and Torres 

Strait Islanders 

Ms Karen Carey brings expertise in the area of consumer issues 

Professor Michael Kidd AM brings expertise in the area of health care training 

Professor David Story brings expertise in the area of professional and post-graduate medical training 

Professor Brendan Crabb AC brings expertise in the area of health research and medical research issues 

Professor Jonathan Carapetis brings expertise in the area of public health 

Professor Ingrid Scheffer AO brings expertise in areas relevant to the Council 

Professor Elizabeth Sullivan brings expertise in areas relevant to the Council 

162 


CHAIR OF NHMRC COUNCIL 

Chair 

Professor Bruce Robinson AM 

Professor Robinson is an 

endocrinologist. He is Chair of 

the Australian Government’s 

Taskforce of expert clinicians 

charged with reviewing 

the Medicare Benefits 

Schedule and in 2015 was appointed as Chair of 

NHMRC’s Council. 

Professor Robinson’s research has focused 

on identifying genetic changes which either 

predispose or directly cause endocrine tumours. 

Other highlights include the formation of an 

international consortium of families from around 

the world to study medullary thyroid carcinoma 

and phaeochromocytoma. He has been head of 

the Cancer Genetics Unit at the Kolling Institute of 

Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, since 

1989. He continues to practice at Sydney’s Royal 

North Shore Hospital. 

Professor Robinson was the Dean of Sydney 

Medical School from 2007 until 2016. Since 2001, 

he has been Chairman of Hoc Mai Foundation, a 

major program in medical and health education and 

exchange with Vietnam. 

Professor Robinson has supervised 37 PhD students 

and has more than 300 research publications. 

Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for service 

to medicine in the field of neuromuscular and 

neurogenetics research (2012). She is co-chair of 

the Executive of the Global Alliance for Genomics 

and Health, chair of the International Advisory Board 

of the UCL Great Ormond Street Institute for Child 

Health (UK) and a member of the Board of the 

Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre. 

In 2012, Professor North was appointed chair of 

the National Health and Medical Research Council 

Research Committee and in 2014 was appointed as 

a foundation Fellow of the Australian Academy of 

Health and Medical Sciences. 

Australian Health Ethics 

Committee Chair 

Professor Ian Olver AM 

Professor Olver is the Director 

of the Sansom Institute for 

Health Research, Professor of 

Translational Cancer Research 

and Dean Research Strategy 

in the Division of Health Sciences at University of 

South Australia. A renowned oncologist, cancer 

researcher and bioethicist, he has held senior 

positions in Australia and abroad. 

With research interests in anticancer drug studies, 

symptom control, bio-ethics and psycho-oncology, 

Professor Olver is the author of more than 200 

journal articles and is a regular commentator on 

cancer issues in Australia and internationally. 


CHAIRS OF PRINCIPAL COMMITTEES 

Research Committee Chair 

Professor Kathryn North AM 

Professor North is the Director 

of the Murdoch Childrens 

Research Institute and the David 

Danks Professor of Child Health 

Research at the University 

of Melbourne. 

Professor North is a neurologist and geneticist and 

leads national and international networks focused 

on the integration of genomic medicine into clinical 

practice for prevention and early intervention. 

Professor North has received a number of awards 

including the GSK Australia Award for Research 

Excellence (2011), the Ramaciotti Medal for 

Excellence in Biomedical Research (2012) and 

He was appointed a Member of the Order of 

Australia (AM) for service to medical oncology as a 

clinician, researcher, administrator and mentor, and 

to the community through leadership roles with 

cancer control organisations. 

Health Innovation Advisory 


Professor Graeme Samuel AC 

Professor Samuel is a Vice 

Chancellor’s Professorial Fellow 

in Monash University’s Business 

School and co-director of the 

Monash Business Policy Forum. 

He is also a Member of the Aged Care Financing 

Authority, a Commissioner of the National Rugby 

League, a Councillor of the Australian National 

University, President of Alzheimer’s Australia, and 

chair of the South Eastern Melbourne Primary 

Health Network. 


163


Professor Samuel has held a number of roles in 

public life including as Chairman of the Australian 

Competition and Consumer Commission. He was 

appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia in 

1998. In 2010 he was elevated to a Companion of 

the Order of Australia. 

Health Translation Advisory 


Professor Sharon Lewin 

Professor Lewin is the inaugural 

director of the Peter Doherty 

Institute for Infection and 

Immunity, a joint venture 

between the University 

of Melbourne and Royal Melbourne Hospital; 

consultant infectious diseases physician, Alfred 

Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; and an NHMRC 

Practitioner Fellow. She is an infectious diseases 

physician and basic scientist. She leads a large 

multi-disciplinary research team that focuses on 

understanding why HIV persists on treatment and 

developing clinical trials aimed at ultimately finding a 

cure for HIV infection. 

She was the local co-chair of the International AIDS 

Conference (AIDS2014), held in Melbourne in July 

2014, which was the largest health conference 

ever held in Australia. In 2014, she was named 

Melburnian of the Year, an annual award from the 

City of Melbourne to an inspirational role model who 

has made an outstanding contribution to the city in 

their chosen field. 

She is active internationally in advocating for increased 

investment from the public and private sector in HIV 

cure research, a member of the governing council of 

the International AIDS Society (IAS) representing the 

Asia Pacific region and is on the leadership team of 

the IAS’s Strategy Towards an HIV Cure. She chairs 

the Ministerial Advisory Committee on Blood Borne 

Viruses and Sexually Transmitted Infections, which 

is the peak advisory body on HIV infection to the 

Australian Minister for Health. 

CHIEF MEDICAL AND HEALTH 

OFFICERS 

Chief Medical Officer, 

Australian Government 

Professor Chris Baggoley AO 

Professor Baggoley is the 

Chief Medical Officer for the 

Australian Government and is 

the Principal Medical Adviser to 

the Minister and the Department 

of Health. Professor Baggoley also holds direct 

responsibility for the Department of Health’s Office 

of Health Protection. 

Prior to his appointment Professor Baggoley was the 

Chief Executive of the Australian Commission on 

Safety and Quality in Health Care. He was a former 

Chief Medical Officer and Executive Director with 

the South Australian Department of Health. His 

clinical career has been in emergency medicine. 

New South Wales 

Dr Kerry Chant PSM 

Dr Chant leads the Population 

and Public Health Division 

at NSW Health which has 

accountabilities for a broad 

portfolio of issues, including 

tobacco control, reduction of 

risk drinking and obesity, the promotion of physical 

activity, end of life care and organ donation. She has 

a particular interest in the response to HIV, hepatitis 

C and hepatitis B and Aboriginal health. 

Victoria 

Professor Charles Guest (from 

1 May 2016) 

Professor Guest is the Chief 

Health Officer for Victoria. He 

has worked in government and 

academic public health medicine 

in Australia and overseas and 

as the Chief Health Officer in the Australian Capital 

Territory in 2005 and 2007–11. He originally trained 

at the University of Melbourne. 

He has academic appointments at University of 

Melbourne, Monash University and the Australian 

National University. 

164 


Australian Capital Territory 

Dr Paul Kelly 

Dr Kelly is a public health 

physician, Chief Health Officer 

for the Australian Capital Territory 

and Deputy Director General 

(Population Health), Australian 

Capital Territory Government 

Health Directorate. He is an adjunct professor at 

the Australian National University. He has worked 

in government and academic public health in 

four Australian jurisdictions and in several other 

countries. He is a member of two World Health 

Organization committees. 

Dr Kelly has a particular research interest and 

expertise in respiratory infectious diseases, 

including tuberculosis and influenza, health services 

research and systems approaches to chronic 

disease prevention. 

Northern Territory 

Professor Dinesh Arya 

Professor Arya is a Fellow of 

the Royal Australian College of 

Medical Administrators, Fellow 

of the Australian College of 

Health Service Management and 

the Royal Australian and New 

Zealand College of Psychiatrists. He has a Masters 

in Business, Masters in Bioethics and Health Law 

and an Executive Masters in Public Administration. 

Previously Professor Arya has held a variety of 

senior executive roles in the health sector in 

New Zealand, Western Australia and New South 

Wales. He is an accreditation surveyor with the 

Australian Council of Health Care Standards and 

has held statutory roles as a Member of Mental 

Health Review Tribunals in New Zealand and in New 

South Wales. 

Professor Arya has remained a practising 

psychiatrist, academic and researcher with past 

adjunct and conjoint appointments in Psychiatry, 

Health Management and Business Management 

with the University of Otago and Massey University 

in New Zealand, the University of Western Australia, 

Curtin University, the University of Newcastle and 

the Department of Project Management, School of 

Engineering, University of Sydney. 

South Australia 

Professor Paddy Phillips PSM 

Professor Phillips is the Chief 

Medical Officer and the Chief 

Public Health Officer for South 

Australia. His portfolio includes 

public health, safety and quality, 

emergency management, 

medical workforce and training, epidemiology, 

libraries and research. 

He was previously Professor and Head of Medicine, 

Flinders University, Flinders Medical Centre and 

Repatriation General Hospital, Adelaide. Before that 

Professor Phillips held senior clinical academic posts 

at the University of Melbourne, followed by Oxford 

University. His interests are in building a better 

health system through innovation, collaboration 

and leadership. He remains clinically active in 

acute general medicine with interests in health 

services research. 

Western Australia 

Professor Gary Geelhoed 

Professor Geelhoed is the Chief 

Medical Officer and the Assistant 

Director General – Clinical 

Services and Research for the 

Western Australian Department 

of Health. He trained as a 

General Paediatrician and a Paediatric Emergency 

Physician having graduated from the University of 

Western Australia. 

Prior to commencing as the Chief Medical Officer, 

Professor Geelhoed worked as the Director of 

the Emergency Department at Princess Margaret 

Hospital for Children for 21 years. 

He is a past President of the Australian Medical 

Association Western Australia, and a current 

Federal and Western Australian Australian Medical 

Association Councillor. 

Professor Geelhoed’s main research interest lies in 

acute respiratory illness in children. 



165


Tasmania 

Professor Anthony Lawler 

Professor Lawler is the Director, 

Acute Planning and Strategy 

and Principal Medical Advisor 

(Conjoint) within the Department 

of Health and Human Services. 

He is also Professor in Health 

Services at the University of Tasmania and a 

member of the Australian Medical Council’s Special 

Education Accreditation Committee. He was 

previously the Medical Advisor to the Minister for 

Health, Deputy Head of the Tasmanian School of 

Medicine and President of the Tasmanian Branch of 

the Australian Medical Association. 

Anthony is a practising Specialist Emergency 

Physician and President of the Australasian College 

for Emergency Medicine. He is a Director of 

HealthDirect Australia and the Postgraduate Medical 

Education Council of Tasmania. 

Queensland 

Dr Jeannette Young PSM 

Dr Young has been the 

Queensland Chief Health Officer 

since 2005. Previously she 

worked in a range of positions 

in Queensland and Sydney. She 

has specialist qualifications as a 

Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Medical 

Administrators and as a Fellow by Distinction of 

the Faculty of Public Health of the Royal College 

of Physicians of the United Kingdom. She is an 

Adjunct Professor in the Centre for Environment 

and Population Health at Griffith University and an 

Adjunct Professor in the School of Public Health 

and Social Work at the Queensland University 

of Technology. 

Her role as Chief Health Officer and Deputy 

Director-General includes: responsibility for health 

disaster planning and response; aero-medical 

retrieval services; licensing of private hospitals; and 

policy regarding research; organ and tissue donation; 

blood, poisons and medicines; cancer screening; 

communicable diseases; environmental health; 

preventive health; and medical workforce planning 

and leadership. 

Dr Young is a member of numerous committees and 

boards including: QIMR Berghofer Medical Research 

Institute; Australian Health Protection Principal 

Committee; Jurisdictional Blood Committee; Organ 

and Tissue Jurisdictional Advisory Committee; 

National Screening Committee and the Queensland 

Clinical Senate. 

MEMBERS 

Professor Sandra Eades 

Member with expertise in the health needs of 

Aboriginal persons and Torres Strait Islanders: 

Professor Eades is the Domain Head of Aboriginal 

Health at Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute. 

Sandra is a Noongar woman from Mount Barker, 

Western Australia, and is Australia’s first Aboriginal 

medical doctor to be awarded a Doctorate of 

Philosophy (2003). Sandra has recently been 

appointed a founding Fellow of the new Australian 

Academy of Health and Medical Sciences. Sandra’s 

research career has focused on the epidemiology of 

Indigenous child health in Australia. Over the past 

decade, she has made substantial contributions 

to the area of Aboriginal health and has provided 

leadership at a national level in Aboriginal research. 

Ms Karen Carey 

Member with expertise in consumer issues 

Ms Carey has represented consumers for more than 

a decade across all levels of the healthcare system. 

She is the chair of the NHMRC Community and 

Consumer Advisory Group, the immediate past chair 

of the Consumers Health Forum and former chair of 

the Health Consumers Council of Western Australia. 

Ms Carey’s focus is on building a healthcare 

system that highly values prevention and in which 

consumers can meaningfully partner with service 

providers to deliver safe, effective and cost-effective 

care, from individual patient episodes to systemwide 

strategic planning and design. 

166 


Professor Michael Kidd AM 

Member with expertise in health care training 

Professor Kidd is a general practitioner, primary care 

researcher, medical educator and author. He is the 

Executive Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing 

and Health Sciences at Flinders University. He is 

the current president of the World Organization of 

Family Doctors and a past president of the Royal 

Australian College of General Practitioners. He is 

an elected fellow of the Australian Academy of 

Health and Medical Sciences. He is chair of the 

South Australian Government’s Clinical Training 

Council, and a member of the board of directors of 

beyondblue, Therapeutic Guidelines, GPEx, Flinders 

Fertility, FCD Health and the Channel 7 Children’s 

Research Foundation. 

Professor David Story 

Member with expertise in professional and postgraduate 

medical training 

Professor Story is Foundation Chair of Anaesthesia 

at the University of Melbourne and Head of the 

Anaesthesia, Perioperative and Pain Medicine Unit. 

He promotes research, teaching and engagement 

at the 14 hospitals affiliated with the University. 

His clinical work involves perioperative care for all 

surgical specialties including liver transplantation. 

Professor Story is a senior investigator with the 

Clinical Trials Network of the Australian and New 

Zealand College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA), sits on 

the ANZCA Research Committee. His research is 

focused on effective approaches to reduce short 

term and long-term perioperative risk, complications, 

disability and mortality. He is committed to 

integrating research evidence and methodology into 

safety and quality in health care. 

Professor Brendan Crabb AC 

Member with expertise in health research and 

medical research issues 

Professor Crabb is the Director and CEO of Burnet 

Institute and the current chair of the Victorian 

chapter of the Association of Australian Medical 

Research Institutes. Professor Crabb is a molecular 

biologist with a particular interest in infectious 

diseases and in health issues of the developing 

world. His personal research is the development 

of a malaria vaccine and the identification of new 

treatments for this disease. 

He holds Professorial appointments at the University 

of Melbourne and Monash University and is a 

Fellow of the Australian Academy of Health and 

Medical Sciences. 

He was awarded a Companion of the Order of 

Australia (AC) in the 2015 Australia Day Honours 

for eminent service to medical science as a 

prominent researcher of infectious diseases, 

particularly malaria, and their impact on population 

health in developing nations, as an advocate, 

mentor and administrator, and through fostering 

medical research nationally and internationally. He 

continues to serve on the board of the Association 

of Australian Medical Research Institutes as well as 

that of Research Australia. 

Professor Jonathan Carapetis 

Member with expertise in public health 

Professor Carapetis is the Director of the Telethon 

Kids Institute in Perth, Western Australia. He holds 

separate qualifications as a medical practitioner 

(MBBS), specialist paediatrician (FRACP Paediatrics), 

specialist infectious diseases physician (FRACP 

Infect Dis) and specialist public health physician 

(FAFPHM), as well as a PhD. 

His research interests include rheumatic fever 

and rheumatic heart disease, other group A 

streptococcal diseases, vaccine preventable 

disease, indigenous child health, child development 

and education, youth health and education and skin 

sores and scabies. 

Previous positions include Director of the Menzies 

School of Health Research in Darwin, Northern 

Territory, from 2006–12, terms as Director of 

the Centre for International Child Health at the 

University of Melbourne, Theme Director at the 

Murdoch Childrens Research Institute in Melbourne 

and Clinical Fellow in Paediatric Infectious Diseases 

at the Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada. 

Professor Carapetis holds a clinical position with 

the Princess Margaret Hospital for Children and is a 

professor at the University of Western Australia. 



167


Member 

Professor Ingrid Scheffer AO 

Professor Scheffer is a paediatric neurologist and 

laureate professor at the University of Melbourne, 

honorary senior principal research fellow at the 

Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health 

and NHMRC Practitioner Fellow. 

Professor Scheffer’s clinical research has helped 

to transform the diagnosis and treatment of 

epilepsy with a focus on genetics, classification and 

translation to improve patient care through precision 

medicine approaches. Her research interests 

also encompass autism spectrum disorders and 

speech and language disorders. She is leading 

the International League Against Epilepsy’s new 

classification of the epilepsies. She is a founding 

fellow and Vice-President of the Australian Academy 

of Health and Medical Sciences and is also a Fellow 

of the Australian Academy of Science. 

Member 

Professor Elizabeth Sullivan 

Professor Sullivan is Assistant Deputy Vice 

Chancellor (Research) and Professor of Public Health 

at the University of Technology Sydney. She is a 

public health physician, medical epidemiologist 

and health services researcher with a strong 

commitment to social justice and advancing gender 

equality in academia. She is academic lead and hair 

of the Self-Assessment Team for Athena SWAN at 

the University of Technology Sydney. 

Professor Sullivan has a particular interest in rare 

and severe conditions in pregnancy, justice health 

and Indigenous health. She is a population health 

and health systems researcher who is focused 

on reducing health inequalities of vulnerable 

reproductive populations and improving maternal 

and infant outcomes. She has made substantial 

contributions to the field of perinatal health. 

Previous positions include Professor of Perinatal 

and Reproductive Health and Director, Australian 

Institute of Health and Welfare National Perinatal 

Epidemiology and Statistics Unit, University of 

New South Wales, and Head of Research, Family 

Planning NSW. 

168 


APPENDIX 3: RESEARCH COMMITTEE 

The functions of the Research Committee, as set out in section 35(2) of the NHMRC Act, are: 

• to advise and make recommendations to the Council on the application of the Medical Research 

Endowment Account (MREA) 

• to monitor the use of assistance provided from the MREA 

• to advise the Council on matters relating to medical research and public health research, including the 

quality and scope of such research in Australia 

• such other functions as the Minister from time to time determines in writing after consulting the CEO 


MEMBERSHIP OF THE RESEARCH COMMITTEE 

CHAIR 


Professor Kathryn North AM is the chair of the Research Committee 

MEMBERS 

Professor Warren Alexander 

Associate Professor James Bourne 

Professor Jeffrey Braithwaite 

Professor Peter Ebeling AO 

Professor Timothy Hughes 

Professor Maria Kavallaris 

Professor Bronwyn Kingwell 

Professor Peter Leedman 

Associate Professor Daniel McAullay 

Professor Sandy Middleton 

Associate Professor Ben Solomon 

Professor Nicholas Talley 

Professor Helena Teede 

Professor Rosalie Viney 

Professor Patsy Yates 


169

APPENDIX 4: AUSTRALIAN HEALTH 

ETHICS COMMITTEE 

The functions of the Australian Health Ethics Committee (AHEC), as set out in section 35(3) of the NHMRC 

Act, are: 

• to advise the Council on the ethical issues relating to health 

• to develop and give the Council human research guidelines under subsection 10(2) of the NHMRC Act 

• any other functions conferred on the Committee in writing by the Minister after consulting the CEO 



AHEC’s composition is specified in the NHMRC Act. Members draw on expertise in philosophy, the ethics of 

medical research, public health and social science research, clinical medical practice and nursing, disability, 

law, religion and health consumer issues. 

Under section 36(2) of the NHMRC Act, AHEC’s membership must include individuals who, collectively, have 

membership of all the other Principal Committees. 

MEMBERSHIP OF THE AUSTRALIAN HEALTH ETHICS COMMITTEE 

CHAIR 

Professor Ian Olver AM is the chair of AHEC 

MEMBERS 

Associate Professor Mark Arnold 

Ms Rebecca Davies 

Emeritus Professor Anne Edwards 

Professor Helen Edwards 

Associate Professor Clara Gaff 

Professor Louisa Jorm 

Associate Professor Karen Liu 

Associate Professor Daniel McAullay 

Reverend Kevin McGovern 

Professor Dianne Nicol 

Professor Peter Procopis 

Dr Sarah Winch 

Professor Ingrid Winship 

170 


APPENDIX 5: EMBRYO RESEARCH LICENSING 

COMMITTEE 

The Embryo Research Licensing Committee (ERLC) oversees the Research Involving Human Embryos Act 

2002 and the Prohibition of Human Cloning for Reproduction Act 2002. The legislation prohibits certain 

practices, including human cloning for reproduction. It regulates use of excess human embryos created 

through assisted reproductive technology (ART), the creation of embryos by other means and use of such 

embryos for research purposes. It is an offence to use an excess ART embryo unless it is an exempt use or 

is authorised by a licence issued by the Embryo Research Licensing Committee. 

MEMBERSHIP OF THE EMBRYO RESEARCH LICENSING COMMITTEE 

CHAIR 

Professor Constantine (Con) Michael AO is the chair of the ERLC. He satisfies the requirement of having a 

person with expertise in the regulation of assisted reproductive technology on the committee. 


MEMBERSHIP 

Professor Dianne Nicol 

Professor Sheryl de Lacey 

Professor Martin Pera 

Dr Anne Clark 

Associate Professor Bernadette Richards 

Mr Robert Pask 

Mr Michael Condon 

Professor Patrick Tam 

A member of the Australian Health Ethics Committee 

A person with expertise in research ethics 

A person with expertise in a relevant area of research 

A person with expertise in assisted reproductive technology 

A person with expertise in a relevant area of law 

A person with expertise in consumer health issues relating to 

disability and disease 

A person with expertise in consumer issues relating to 

assisted reproductive technology 

A person with expertise in embryology 


171

APPENDIX 6: HEALTH TRANSLATION 

ADVISORY COMMITTEE 

The Health Translation Advisory Committee (HTAC) advises the CEO and Council of NHMRC on opportunities 

to improve health outcomes in areas including clinical care, public, population and environmental health, 

communicable diseases and prevention of illness through effective translation of research into health care 

and clinical practice. 

The functions of HTAC, as gazetted by the Minister on 29 June 2015, are to advise the CEO and Council on: 


• major challenges, current issues and trends in health and health care, including those specific to 


• priorities and strategies to address these challenges 

• strategies to promote research translation into practice and policy 

• promoting dissemination and implementation of research findings and NHMRC-issued guidelines 

• any other matter referred to by the CEO. 

MEMBERSHIP OF THE HEALTH TRANSLATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE 

Members have clinical or research expertise and experience in areas such as clinical practice, health 

services, new technologies including genomics, public health, health economics, evidence evaluation and 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health. 

CHAIR 

Professor Sharon Lewin is the chair of HTAC 

MEMBERSHIP 

Professor Sam Berkovic AC 

Professor Yvonne Cadet-James 

Professor Rosemary Calder AM 

Associate Professor Clara Gaff 

Mr Toby Hall 

Professor Michael Nilsson 

Professor Vlado Perkovic 

Professor John Prins 

Professor Steve Webb 

Professor Steve Wesselingh 

172 


APPENDIX 7: HEALTH INNOVATION 

ADVISORY COMMITTEE 

The Health Innovation Advisory Committee (HIAC) advises the CEO and Council of NHMRC on current and 

emerging issues related to the development, commercialisation and uptake of innovative technologies and 

practices arising from health and medical research. 

The functions of HIAC, as gazetted by the Minister on 29 June 2015, are to advise the CEO and Council of 

NHMRC on: 

• strategies to foster the development and uptake of innovative technologies and practices to improve 

human health, including the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples 

• strategies to promote collaboration between the health and medical research and commercial sectors 

• creating a culture of commercialisation for the translation of research into health outcomes 

• any other matter referred by the CEO. 


MEMBERSHIP OF THE HEALTH INNOVATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE 

Members have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in areas such as emerging technologies, 

commercialisation and intellectual property development and protection. 

CHAIR 

Professor Graeme Samuel AC is the chair of HIAC 

MEMBERSHIP 

Professor Matthew Cooper 

Professor Edwina Cornish AO 

Ms Rebecca Davies 

Dr Kerry Hegarty 

Associate Professor Kelvin Kong 

Dr Dean Moss 

Dr Buzz Palmer 

Mr Nehemiah Richardson 

Dr Chris Roberts 


173

APPENDIX 8: COMMISSIONER OF 

COMPLAINTS BIOGRAPHY 

Professor Don Chalmers is a distinguished Professor at the University of Tasmania and Director of the Centre 

for Law and Genetics. He is a Foundation Fellow of the Australian Academy of Law and is chair of the Gene 

Technology Ethics and Community Consultative Committee. Professor Chalmers is also chair of the Data 

Access Committee of the International Cancer Genome Consortium and the deputy chair of the Human 

Genome Organisation Ethics Committee. 


Professor Chalmers was chair of the Australian Red Cross Ethics Committee from 2000–10. He has also 

served on other bodies, including the Commonwealth Organ and Tissue Authority (2008–11); Board of the 

National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Council (2007–11); Board of the Australian Institute of Family Studies 

(1998–2006); and Commonwealth Biotechnology Advisory Council (1999–2002). Professor Chalmers was 

Law Reform Commissioner for Tasmania (1991–97); consultant to the Australian Law Reform Commission 

Report on genetic privacy (2001–03); and chair of the Australian Institute of Health, Law and Ethics (2002– 

05). He was chair of the NHMRC Australian Health Ethics Committee from 1994–2000, during which time 

the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research was published; deputy chair of the NHMRC 

Embryo Research Licensing Committee (2014–12); a member of the NHMRC Human Genetics Advisory 

Committee (2006–09); and a member of other NHMRC committees. 

In 2010, Professor Chalmers received the NHMRC Ethics Award and the Australian Red Cross Distinguished 

Service Award. 

174 


APPENDIX 9: PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS 

Public consultation 

Draft Chapter 3.6: Xenotransplantation of the National Statement on Ethical 

Conduct in Human Research 

Consultation on a revised Position Statement on Safety Reporting and 

Monitoring in Clinical Trials Involving Therapeutic Goods 

Closing date 

8 June 2016 

27 May 2016 

Consultation on the production and publication of trustworthy clinical practice 

guidelines in Australia 

Australian Drinking Water Guidelines: Draft amendments to Chapters Six 

and Ten 

Ethical guidelines on the use of assisted reproductive technology in clinical 

practice and research 

22 January 2016 

15 January 2016 

17 September 2015 


Australian Drinking Water Guidelines: Draft amendments to Chapters Six 

and Eight 

31 August 2015 


175

APPENDIX 10: GLOSSARY AND ACRONYMS 


AC 

Companion of the Order of Australia 

ACSQHC Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care 

AHEC 


AHPPC 

Australian Health Protection Principal Committee 

AHRTC 

Advanced Health Research and Translation Centre 

AI 

Administering Institution 

AM 

Member of the Order of Australia 

ANAO 

Australian National Audit Office 

ANZCO 

Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists 

APS 

Australian Public Service 

ARC 

Australian Research Council 

ARIC 

Australian Research Integrity Committee 

ART 

Assisted Reproductive Technology 

CBRN 

chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear 

CDF 

Career Development Fellowship 

CEO 


CI 

Chief Investigator 

CPR 

Commonwealth Procurement Rules 

CRE 

Centres of Research Excellence 

DFAT 

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade 

EAP 

Employee Assistance Program 

ERLC 


FODMAPs Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols 

FOI Act Freedom of Information Act 1982 

GRP 

Grant Review Panel 

HIAC 


HoMER 

Harmonisation of Multi-Centre Ethical Review 

HREA 

human research ethics application 

HREC 

human research ethics committee 

HREP 

human research ethics portal 

HTAC 


IAS 

International AIDS Society 

ICGC 

International Cancer Genome Consortium 

iMRIs 

independent Medical Research Institutes 

IPP 

Indigenous Procurement Policy 

IPS 

Information Publication Scheme 

176 


IREG 

IRIISS 

JPco-fuND 

JPND 

MREA 

NABERS 

NFFC 

NGOs 

NHMRC 

Indigenous Research Ethics Guidelines 

Independent Research Institute Infrastructure Support Scheme 

A call for European research projects on neurodegenerative diseases: risk and protective 

factors, longitudinal cohort approaches and advanced experimental models 

European Union Joint Program – Neurodegenerative Disease 

Medical Research Endowment Account 

National Australian Built Environment Rating System 

not for further consideration 

non-government organisations 


NHMRC Act National Health and Medical Research Council Act 1992 

NHPA 

NNIDR 

NSFC 

OIAC 

OTA 

PCIC 

National Health Priority Area 

NHMRC National Institute for Dementia Research 

National Natural Science Foundation of China 

Office of the Australian Information Commissioner 

Organ and Tissue Authority 

Principal Committee Indigenous Caucus 

PHCR Act Prohibition of Human Cloning for Reproduction Act 2002 

PGPA Act Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 

PGPA Rule Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Rule 2014 

PIR 

RC 

RF 

RGMS 

post implementation review 


Research Fellowship 

Research Grants Management System 

RIHE Act Research Involving Human Embryos Act 2002 

RMF 

RMS 

SME 

SSR 

SToRE 

TCR 

TSANZ 

WHCOs 

WHSAs 

Risk Management Policy and Framework 

Rehabilitation Management System 

Small and Medium Enterprise 

Strategic Risk Register 

Synthesis and Translation of Research Evidence 

Targeted Calls for Research 

Transplantation Society of Australia and New Zealand 

Workplace Harassment Contact Officers 

Work Health and Safety Arrangements 



177

APPENDIX 11: COMPLIANCE CHECKLIST 

PGPA Rule 

Reference 

Part of 

Report 

Description Requirement Location 

17AD(g) 

Letter of transmittal 


17AI 

17AD(h) 

Aids to access 

A copy of the letter of transmittal signed 

and dated by accountable authority on date 

final text approved, with statement that the 

report has been prepared in accordance 

with section 46 of the Act and any enabling 

legislation that specifies additional 

requirements in relation to the annual report. 

Mandatory 

17AJ(a) Table of contents. Mandatory iii 

17AJ(b) Alphabetical index. Mandatory 185–189 

ii 

17AJ(c) Glossary of abbreviations and acronyms. Mandatory 176 

17AJ(d) List of requirements. Mandatory 178–183 

17AJ(e) Details of contact officer. Mandatory Inside cover 

17AJ(f) Entity’s website address. Mandatory Back cover 

17AJ(g) Electronic address of report. Mandatory www.nhmrc.gov. 

au/guidelinespublications/nh172 

17AD(a) 

17AD(a) 

17AD(b) 

17AE(1)(a)(i) 

17AE(1)(a)(ii) 

17AE(1)(a)(iii) 

17AE(1)(a)(iv) 

Review by accountable authority 

A review by the accountable authority of the 

entity. 

Overview of the entity 

A description of the role and functions of the 

entity. 

A description of the organisational structure 

of the entity. 

A description of the outcomes and 

programmes administered by the entity. 

A description of the purposes of the entity as 

included in corporate plan. 

Mandatory 2–5 


Mandatory 7 

Mandatory 25 

Mandatory 24 

17AE(1)(b) 

An outline of the structure of the portfolio of 

the entity. 

Portfolio 

Departments 

- Mandatory 

N/A 

178 


PGPA Rule 

Reference 

Part of 



17AE(2) 

Where the outcomes and programs 

administered by the entity differ from 

any Portfolio Budget Statement, Portfolio 

Additional Estimates Statement or other 

portfolio estimates statement that was 

prepared for the entity for the period, include 

details of variation and reasons for change. 

If applicable, 

Mandatory 

N/A 

17AD(c) 

Report on the Performance of the entity 

Annual performance Statements 

17AD(c)(i); 

16F 

17AD(c)(ii) 

17AF(1)(a) 

Annual performance statement in accordance 

with paragraph 39(1)(b) of the Act and section 

16F of the Rule. 

Report on Financial Performance 

A discussion and analysis of the entity’s 

financial performance. 


Mandatory 120 


17AF(1)(b) 

A table summarising the total resources and 

total payments of the entity. 

Mandatory 121 

17AF(2) 

If there may be significant changes in the 

financial results during or after the previous 

or current reporting period, information on 

those changes, including: the cause of any 

operating loss of the entity; how the entity 

has responded to the loss and the actions 

that have been taken in relation to the 

loss; and any matter or circumstances that 

it can reasonably be anticipated will have 

a significant impact on the entity’s future 

operation or financial results. 


Mandatory 

N/A 

17AD(d) 

Management and Accountability 

Corporate Governance 

17AG(2)(a) Information on compliance with section 10 

(fraud systems). 


17AG(2)(b)(i) 

A certification by accountable authority that 

fraud risk assessments and fraud control 

plans have been prepared. 

Mandatory 

ii 

17AG(2)(b)(ii) 


appropriate mechanisms for preventing, 

detecting incidents of, investigating or 

otherwise dealing with, and recording or 

reporting fraud that meet the specific needs 

of the entity are in place. 

Mandatory 

ii 


179

PGPA Rule 

Reference 

Part of 



17AG(2)(b)(iii) 


all reasonable measures have been taken to 

deal appropriately with fraud relating to the 

entity. 

Mandatory 

ii 

17AG(2)(c) 

An outline of structures and processes in 

place for the entity to implement principles 

and objectives of corporate governance. 



17AG(2)(d) 

– (e) 

17AG(3) 

External Scrutiny 

A statement of significant issues reported 

to Minister under paragraph 19(1)(e) of the 

Act that relates to non-compliance with 

Finance law and action taken to remedy noncompliance. 

Information on the most significant 

developments in external scrutiny and the 

entity’s response to the scrutiny. 


Mandatory 

N/A 

Mandatory 93 

17AG(3)(a) 

Information on judicial decisions and 

decisions of administrative tribunals and by 

the Australian Information Commissioner 

that may have a significant effect on the 

operations of the entity. 


Mandatory 

93 

17AG(3)(b) 

Information on any reports on operations 

of the entity by the Auditor-General 

(other than report under section 43 of the 

Act), a Parliamentary Committee, or the 

Commonwealth Ombudsman. 


Mandatory 

N/A 

17AG(3)(c) 

Information on any capability reviews on the 

entity that were released during the period. 


Mandatory 

N/A 

Management of Human Resources 

17AG(4)(a) 

17AG(4)(b) 

An assessment of the entity’s effectiveness 

in managing and developing employees to 

achieve entity objectives. 

Statistics on the entity’s APS employees on 

an ongoing and non-ongoing basis; including 

the following: 

• Statistics on staffing classification level 

• Statistics on full-time employees 

• Statistics on part-time employees 

• Statistics on gender 

• Statistics on staff location 

• Statistics on employees who identify as 

Indigenous. 



180 


PGPA Rule 

Reference 

Part of 



17AG(4)(c) 

Information on any enterprise agreements, 

individual flexibility arrangements, Australian 

workplace agreements, common law 

contracts and determinations under 

subsection 24(1) of the Public Service Act 

1999. 

Mandatory 113 

17AG(4)(c)(i) 

Information on the number of SES and non- 

SES employees covered by agreements etc 

identified in paragraph 17AD(4)(c). 

Mandatory 113 

17AG(4)(c)(ii) 

17AG(4)(c)(iii) 

17AG(4)(d)(i) 

The salary ranges available for APS 

employees by classification level. 

A description of non-salary benefits provided 

to employees. 

Information on the number of employees 

at each classification level who received 

performance pay. 

Mandatory 113 

Mandatory 114 


Mandatory 

N/A 


17AG(4)(d)(ii) 

Information on aggregate amounts of 

performance pay at each classification level. 


Mandatory 

N/A 

17AG(4)(d)(iii) 

Information on the average amount of 

performance payment, and range of such 

payments, at each classification level. 


Mandatory 

N/A 

17AG(4)(d)(iv) 

Information on aggregate amount of 

performance payments. 


Mandatory 

N/A 

Assets Management 

17AG(5) 

An assessment of effectiveness of assets 

management where asset management is a 

significant part of the entity’s activities. 


Mandatory 

N/A 

Purchasing 

17AG(6) 

17AG(7)(a) 

Consultants 

An assessment of entity performance against 

the Commonwealth Procurement Rules. 

A summary statement detailing the number 

of new contracts engaging consultants 

entered into during the period; the total actual 

expenditure on all new consultancy contracts 

entered into during the period (inclusive of 

GST); the number of ongoing consultancy 

contracts that were entered into during a 

previous reporting period; and the total actual 

expenditure in the reporting year on the 

ongoing consultancy contracts (inclusive of 

GST). 




181

PGPA Rule 

Reference 

Part of 



17AG(7)(b) 

A statement that “During [reporting period], 

[specified number] new consultancy 

contracts were entered into involving total 

actual expenditure of $[specified million]. 

In addition, [specified number] ongoing 

consultancy contracts were active during the 

period, involving total actual expenditure of 

$[specified million]”. 

Mandatory 100 


17AG(7)(c) 

17AG(7)(d) 

A summary of the policies and procedures 

for selecting and engaging consultants and 

the main categories of purposes for which 

consultants were selected and engaged. 

A statement that “Annual reports contain 

information about actual expenditure on 

contracts for consultancies. Information on 

the value of contracts and consultancies is 

available on the AusTender website.” 

Mandatory 100 

Mandatory 99 

Australian National Audit Office Access Clauses 

17AG(8) 

Exempt contracts 

If an entity entered into a contract with 

a value of more than $100 000 (inclusive 

of GST) and the contract did not provide 

the Auditor-General with access to the 

contractor’s premises, the report must 

include the name of the contractor, purpose 

and value of the contract, and the reason why 

a clause allowing access was not included in 

the contract. 


Mandatory 

99 

17AG(9) 

If an entity entered into a contract or there 

is a standing offer with a value greater than 

$10 000 (inclusive of GST) which has been 

exempted from being published in AusTender 

because it would disclose exempt matters 

under the FOI Act, the annual report must 

include a statement that the contract or 

standing offer has been exempted, and the 

value of the contract or standing offer, to the 

extent that doing so does not disclose the 

exempt matters. 


Mandatory 

N/A 

Small business 

17AG(10)(a) 

A statement that “[Name of entity] 

supports small business participation in the 

Commonwealth Government procurement 

market. Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) 

and Small Enterprise participation statistics 

are available on the Department of Finance’s 

website.” 

Mandatory 99 

182 


PGPA Rule 

Reference 

Part of 



17AG(10)(b) 

An outline of the ways in which the 

procurement practices of the entity support 

small and medium enterprises. 


17AG(10)(c) 

17AD(e) 

17AD(f) 

If the entity is considered by the Department 

administered by the Finance Minister as 

material in nature—a statement that “[Name 

of entity] recognises the importance of 

ensuring that small businesses are paid on 

time. The results of the Survey of Australian 

Government Payments to Small Business are 

available on the Treasury’s website.” 

Financial Statements 

Inclusion of the annual financial statements in 

accordance with subsection 43(4) of the Act. 

Other Mandatory Information 


Mandatory 

99 



17AH(1)(a)(i) 

If the entity conducted advertising 

campaigns, a statement that “During 

[reporting period], the [name of entity] 

conducted the following advertising 

campaigns: [name of advertising campaigns 

undertaken]. Further information on those 

advertising campaigns is available at [address 

of entity’s website] and in the reports on 

Australian Government advertising prepared 

by the Department of Finance. Those reports 

are available on the Department of Finance’s 

website.” 


Mandatory 

N/A 

17AH(1)(a)(ii) 

If the entity did not conduct advertising 

campaigns, a statement to that effect. 


Mandatory 

102 

17AH(1)(b) 

A statement that “Information on grants 

awarded to [name of entity] during [reporting 

period] is available at [address of entity’s 

website].” 


Mandatory 

10 

17AH(1)(c) 

17AH(1)(d) 

Outline of mechanisms of disability reporting, 

including reference to website for further 

information. 

Website reference to where the entity’s 

Information Publication Scheme statement 

pursuant to Part II of FOI Act can be found. 

Mandatory 112, 115 

Mandatory 96 

17AH(1)(e) 

Correction of material errors in previous 

annual report. 


Mandatory 

105 

17AH(2) Information required by other legislation. Mandatory 90–91 


183

The difference a national 

clinical guideline can make – 

Antenatal Magnesium Sulphate 

CASE STUDY 


Cerebral palsy and cognitive dysfunction are the 

most common neurologic impairments associated 

with preterm birth (before 37 weeks gestation). In 

2008, the cost of cerebral palsy to the Australian 

community, including financial cost and lost 

wellbeing, was estimated to be AUD$3.87 billion 

per annum. In per capita terms, this is $115,000 per 

person each year. 

“In 2009, it was 

discovered that giving 

magnesium sulphate to 

women prior to preterm 

birth reduces the risk of 

cerebral palsy.” 

The babies of more than 4,000 pregnant Australian 

women are at risk, but only 63 women needed to 

be treated to benefit one baby through avoiding 

cerebral palsy. 

The Antenatal Magnesium Sulphate guidelines 

were developed recommending that women at 

risk of early preterm birth use magnesium sulphate 

for neuroprotection of the fetus, infant and child. 

The guidelines met NHMRC’s requirements and 

standards, which are designed to ensure that 

guidelines are based on the best-available scientific 

evidence, and were endorsed by NHMRC in 

November 2010. 

The estimated rate of uptake of this guideline in 

Australian and New Zealand tertiary maternity 

hospitals is approximately 90 per cent. These 

guidelines will therefore have significant positive 

outcomes for the health and wellbeing of preterm 

infants and their families, resulting in significant 

financial savings for the Australian community. 

184 


INDEX 

A 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees, 110, 

112 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, 2, 13, 27, 

33, 38, 39, 41, 49–50, 61, 63, 70, 92, 172, 173 

ethics, 30, 80–82, 90 

targeted research priorities, 38 

about the NHMRC, 6–10 

acronyms and abbreviations, 176–177 

address and contact details, i 

administering institutions, 48 

Advanced Health Research and Translation Centres, 

4, 28, 59–60, 61–62, 64 

advertising and market research, 102 

Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 

Singapore, 57, 58 

agency resource statement, 121 

alcohol, 28, 62 

Animal Welfare Committee, 80 

animals in research, 2, 80, 82, 88, 90 

annual reports 

Australian Research Integrity Committee, 98 

Commissioner of Complaints, 102 

anti-venom, 9, 120 

applications for funding see research funding 

arthritis, 33 

asset management, 101 

assisted reproductive technology 

guidelines on, 5, 30, 80–82, 90 

legislation governing, 89, 90–91, 171 

asthma, 33 

Audit Committee, NHMRC, 94–95 

Auditor-General’s report, 123–124 

AusTender, 99 

Australasian Cochrane Centre, 50 

Australian Drinking Water Guidelines, 175 

Australian Government priorities, 26, 32, 38 

Australian Health Ethics Committee, 5, 73, 81, 87, 

89, 176 

functions and membership, 90, 170 

Australian Health Protection Principal Committee, 

28, 60 

Australian National Audit Office, 87 

access clauses, 99 

Australian Privacy Principles, 96 

Australian Research Council, 5, 26, 43, 52 

Australian Research Integrity Committee, 98 

awards, NHMRC, 11–15 

B 

blood lead levels, see lead exposure guide 

big data, use of, 27, 51, 52 

Boosting Dementia Research initiative, 9, 26, 43–44 

C 

California Institute for Regenerative Medicine, 38 

Canadian Institutes of Health Research, 49 

cardiovascular disease, 2, 5, 33, 66 

Career Development Fellowships, 10, 11, 15, 39–40, 

41, 69 

Cases for Action, 60 

Centres of Research Excellence, 10, 36, 50, 103, 176 

Chair of Council, 88 

Chief Executive Officer, 160, 176 

functions, 86, 87, 123 

letter of transmission, ii 

review 2015–16, 2–5 

children, physical activity, 16–17 

chronic health problems partnership centre, 59 

clinical practice guidelines, 5, 29, 65–68 

Clinical Practice Guidelines Portal, 66, 67 

Clinical Trials Advisory Committee, see Health 

Translation Advisory Committee 

clinical trials, 29, 57, 61, 72–73, 77, 92, 120, 175 

Ready initiative, 73 

web portal, 73 

Cochrane Collaboration, 9, 56, 120 

Cognitive Decline Partnership Centre, 59, 65 

commercialisation of research, 7, 69, 70, 71, 92, 173 

Commissioner of Complaints, 102–103 

Commonwealth Ombudsman, 93 

complaints and feedback, 102–103 

compliance checklist, 178–183 

consultancy services, 100–101 

consultation, public, 175 

corporate governance, 87–92 

Council, NHMRC, 88 

membership, 162–168 



185


D 

data access and sharing, 27, 51, 52, 53 

data strategy, 92 

principles, 27, 52 

decisions review, 93 

dementia research, 25, 26, 28, 43–44, 57, 58 

Australian Research Council, 26, 43 

Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia 

Research, 43 

funding, 9, 10, 33, 39–41, 43–44, 57, 58 

Dementia Research Development Fellowships 

scheme, 39–41, 43, 44 

Dementia Research Team Grants scheme, 44, 

57, 58, 64 

National Institute for Dementia Research, 10, 26, 

28, 43, 58, 62, 64, 104, 177 

priority areas for research, 26, 44, 

Development Grants scheme, 29, 54, 69 

diabetes funding, 10, 33 

research, 38, 66, 

disability, Australian Network on Disability, 115 

reporting, 110, 112 

drinking water, 175 

E 

Early Career Fellowships, 10, 13, 18, 39–40, 41, 49, 

103 

Embryo Research Licensing Committee, 30, 83, 87, 

89, 90, 171, 176 

functions and membership, 171 

employees 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, 110, 112 

carers, 112 

classifications, 110, 111, 112 

diverse cultural and linguistic background, 110, 

112 

enterprise agreements, 113 

gender, 110, 111 

number, 110, 111 

performance pay, 114 

SES employment agreements, 113 

with disability, 110, 112 

energy consumption, NHMRC, 104 

enterprise agreements, 113 

environmental performance, 103–104 

Equipment Grants, 10 

ethical guidelines for animal-to-human trials, 90 

Ethical guidelines for organ transplantation from 

deceased donors, 5, 30, 80, 81, 82, 90 

ethical standards, 30, 76, 77 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, 30, 

80–82, 90 

assisted reproductive technology, 5, 30, 80–82, 

90 

European Union, 38 

Joint Program – Neurodegenerative Diseases, 

44, 58, 177 

evidence reviews, access to, 62, 63, 64 

Executive, NHMRC, 7 

biographies, 160–161 

exempt contracts, 99 

expenses, 25 

external scrutiny, 93 

F 

fellowships, 10, 14–15, 38, 39–42, 43–44, 64, 69 

women, 41–42 

financial performance, 119–157 

financial statements, 122–157 

forum, dementia, 44 

evidence-practice gaps, Aboriginal and Torres 

Strait Islander, 27, 50 

fraud prevention, 95–96, ii 

freedom of information, 96–97 

funding, schemes, review, 26, 37 

international collaboration, 26, 47 

multidisciplinary proposals, 26, 45 

G 

gender equity in research, 41 

gender of employees, 110, 111 

genetics-based research, 77 

genomics, 3, 9, 10, 11, 51, 52 

targeted call for research, 37, 38 

Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases, 37, 38 

Global Alliance for Genomics and Health, 51, 52 

grants, 9–10, 32, 38–42, 44–45, 47–49, 53–54, 

69–71, 102 

structural review of grant program, 3, 37 

Global Research Collaboration for Infectious 

Diseases Preparedness, 51 

guidelines, statements and information papers, 4–5 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research 

Ethics Guidelines, 30, 80, 81, 90 

Australian Immunisation Handbook, The, 5, 66 

Clinical practice guidelines and principles of care 

for people with dementia, 5, 65 

Clinical practice guidelines: PSA Testing and 

Early Management of Test-Detected Prostate 

186 


Cancer 5, 66 

National Evidence Based Guideline on 

Secondary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease 

in Type 2 Diabetes, 5, 66 

Patient Blood Management Guidelines, 5, 65, 88 

Principles for Accessing and Using Publicly 

Funded Data for Health Research, 27, 52 

H 

Health Care grants, 60 

Health Innovation Advisory Committee, 29, 70, 71, 

87, 89, 92, 176 


Health Research Council of New Zealand, 49 

Health Translation Advisory Committee, 28, 57, 61, 

64, 87, 91, 172, 176 


human cloning, 6, 30, 83, 86, 90, 171, 177 

human embryos, 6, 30, 83, 89, 90–91, 171, 177 

human genetics, 77 

human research ethics application, 72, 73, 176 

committees, 75, 76, 176 

portal, 75, 176 

L 

lead exposure guide, 88 

legislative framework, 86 

letter of transmittal, ii 

Ley, the Hon. Sussan, ii, 6, 16, 43, 44, 58 

list of requirements, 178–183 

M 

metadata, 27, 51, 52 

Medical Research Endowment Account, 2, 3, 9, 25, 

26, 32, 49, 89, 120, 169, 177 

Medical Research Future Fund, 3 

Medical Research Institutes see independent 

Medical Research Institutes 

mental health, 33, 37, 114 

Minister for Health and Aged Care, 6 

Ministerial Advisory Committees, 92 

ministerial directions, 93 

multidisciplinary research, 45–47 

collaborative research funding, 47 

engagement strategy, 46 

funding proposals, 45 

tropical health research program, 46–47 


I 

identifiers, researcher, 51 

immunisation, 66 

independent Medical Research Institutes, 2, 27, 48, 

78 

Independent Research Institute Infrastructure 

Support Scheme, 48, 177 

infectious diseases, 4, 28, 36, 51, 57, 60, 63 

information and communications technology 

initiatives, 67 

information papers see guidelines, statements and 

information papers 

integrity, 5, 74–83 

summary, 30 

International Cancer Genome Consortium, 51 

International Engagement Strategy 2016–2019, 

NHMRC, 46 

investment, 2–4, 31–54 

summary, 26–27 

J 

judicial decisions, 93 

K 

Kelso, Professor Anne see Chief Executive Officer 

N 

NABERS energy rating, 104, 177 

National Approach to Single Ethical Review, 30, 

75–76 

National Health and Medical Research Council Act 

1992, 6, 86, 177 

National Health Priority Areas, 32, 33 

National Institute for Dementia Research, 10, 26, 28, 

43, 58, 62, 64, 104, 177 

National Natural Science Foundation of China, 38 

National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human 

Research, 5, 30, 75, 77, 80, 82, 90, 175 

NHMRC – EU Collaborative Research Grants, 10, 38, 

44, 58 

non-human primates, research using, see Policy 

on the Care and Use of Non-Human Primates for 

Scientific Purposes 

Northern Australia Tropical Disease Collaborative 

Research Program, 4, 45–46, 56, 57, 58 

O 

obesity and healthy eating, 3, 57, 58, 

targeted call for research, 10, 33, 37, 38, 57 

objectives, NHMRC, 25 

Office of the Australian Information Commissioner, 

87, 96, 177 


187


open access, 51, 52 

Open Research and Contributor ID, 51 

Organ and Tissue Authority, 82 

organ transplant guidelines, 5, 30, 80–82, 90 

organisational structure, 8 

outcome and program structure, 25 

overview, 1–21 

P 

parliamentary committee reviews, 93 

partnership centres, 59, 64, 65 

Partnership Projects 

grants scheme, 32, 64 

review, 38 

partnerships, 2, 5, 9, 16, 38, 58, 65, 75, 77, 81 

funding, 9, 10, 28, 59, 120 

Partnerships for Better Health, 59 

review, 38 

performance pay, 114 

performance report, 23–83 

philanthropic funding, 26, 36 

physical activity, children, 16–17 

Policy on the Care and Use of Non-Human Primates 

for Scientific Purposes, 5, 80, 82 

Portfolio Budget Statement, 25, 26, 32, 36, 43, 44, 

45, 53, 59, 64, 65, 72, 75, 76, 77, 80, 83 

Practitioner Fellowships, 10, 14, 39, 40, 41 

Principal Committee Indigenous Caucus, 5, 27, 49, 

177 

principal committees, NHMRC, 5, 36, 86, 87, 88, 

89–92 

priority-driven research, 3, 28, 48, 57 

privacy, 96 

procurement, 99–101 

Program Grants, 9, 10, 13, 41, 42, 120 

Prohibition of Human Cloning for Reproduction Act 

2002, 90, 91 

monitoring and compliance, 91 

Project Grants, 10, 13, 29, 41–42, 47, 70, 71, 

prostate cancer, 66 

public consultations, 175 

Public Governance, Performance and Accountability 

Act 2013, 86, 94, 177 

publications, 64 

open access, 52 

see also guidelines, statements and information 

papers 

purchasing, 99 

purpose, NHMRC, 24 

R 

Reconciliation Action Plan, 115 

research certification scheme, 75 

Research Committee, NHMRC, 38, 87, 89–90 


Research Fellowships scheme, 10, 14, 39, 40, 41, 42 

research funding, 9, 10 

applications, 36, 37, 45–46, 47 

Centres of Research Excellence, 36 

expenditure, 9, 10 

National Health Priority Areas, 26, 28, 32, 33, 

56, 58, 177 

objectives, 25 

partnership centres, 59 

Partnership Projects, 4, 9, 10, 38, 58, 59, 64, 120 

peer review, 53, 54 

Targeted call, 36, 37 

Research Grants Management System, 53–54, 95, 

101, 177 

Research Involving Human Embryos Act 2002, 6, 30, 

83, 86, 89, 90–91, 171, 177 

monitoring and compliance, 90–91 

research misconduct, 5, 30, 77–79, 95, 98 

research pillars, 26, 39 

research projects, 10 of the best NHMRC, 18–21 

research reviews, 5, 30 

Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct, 5, 

30, 77–78, 79, 95, 98 

Ethical guidelines on the Use of Assisted 

Reproductive Technology in Clinical Practice and 

Research, 5, 30, 80, 82, 90, 171, 175 

National Statement on Ethical Conduct in 

Human Research, 5, 30, 75, 77, 80, 82, 90, 175 

research translation, 24, 25, 28, 29, 43, 44, 45, 49, 

55–73, 87, 89, 91–92 

symposium, 28, 61 

workshop, 28, 59, 61 

Health Translation Advisory Committee, 179 

Research Translation Faculty, 59, 60 

Research Translation Symposium, 28, 61, 64 

researchers 

identifiers for, 52 

support schemes, 26, 39 

resources, 25 

responsible Minister, 6, 86 

results summary, 26–30 

revenue, 9, 120 

risk management, 94–95 

role and functions, 6–7 

188 


S 

scholarships, 10, 39–41, 42 

science and research priority, 34–35 

senior executives, biographies, 160–161 

senior management committees, 87–92 

Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology and 

Research, 57, 58 

small business procurement, 99–100 

Statement on Data Sharing, 51, 52 

statements see guidelines, statements and 

information papers 

strategy for health and medical research, NHMRC, 

7, 24 

strategic priorities, 24, 32, 38, 86 

Symposium on Research Translation,4, 28, 29, 61, 64 

T 

Targeted calls for research, 3, 37, 49, 88, 177 

genomics, 3, 9, 10, 37, 38 

obesity, 3, 10, 37, 38, 57 

wind farms, 3, 10, 37 

Translating Research into Practice Fellowships, 10, 

39, 40, 41 

tribunal matters and decisions, 93, 97 

tropical disease research, see Northern Australia 

Tropical Disease Collaborative Research Program 

Type 2 diabetes, 66 

U 

Universities Australia, 5 

V 

venom research, 9, 120 

video conferencing capability, 53, 54, 101 

W 

waste management, NHMRC, 104 

water fluoridation, 62–63, 64, 66, 68 

water conservation, NHMRC, 104 

Wellcome Trust, 51, 52 

wind farms, 3, 10, 37 

Targeted call for research, 37 

Women, Chief Investigators, 26, 41–42 

Women in Health Science Working Committee, 26, 

41 

women in research, 2, 6, 46 

Women, NHMRC employees, 111, 112 

Women, preterm magnesium sulphate case study, 

184 

work health and safety, 114 

workforce planning, 112–113 



189

www.nhmrc.gov.au 

GPO Box 1421, Canberra ACT 2601 

16 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra ACT 

13 000 NHMRC (13 000 64672) or 02 6217 9000 

nhmrc@nhmrc.gov.au

Annual Report 2015–2016

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