Annual Report 2015–2016

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.
PART 2 Performance Report
Target 3: Continue to address evidence-practice gaps
Corporate Plan
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
Corporate Plan
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
Corporate Plan
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.
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Annual Report of the National Health and Medical Research Council 2015–2016