Annual Report 2015–2016

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
Corporate Plan
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.
PART 2 Performance Report
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
Annual Report of the National Health and Medical Research Council 2015–2016
63