The Australian Government has reaffirmed its commitment to support innovative health and medical research with a $300 million investment aimed at tackling some of the most pressing health challenges and to improve the health of all Australians.
Innovative research projects addressing specific questions will share in $274 million, across 223 researchers and their teams, through the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Ideas Grants scheme. This scheme cements Australia as an international leading source of innovation and creativity across all areas of health and medical research. It's designed to inspire and encourage researchers to push the boundaries of what is possible.
Charles Sturt University researcher, Dr Brian Sengstock's research is identifying barriers to accessing pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medication for young men in rural and regional areas. This work aims to develop peer-led interventions that will make PrEP more accessible, reducing the risk of HIV infections in vulnerable populations
In addition, $16 million will be invested through the NHMRC Development Grants scheme which supports the commercialisation of innovative research, resulting in improved health and medical knowledge.
One recipient, Professor Sarah Robertson from the University of Adelaide, is pioneering a surface-engineered device that mimics natural processes in the female body to purify sperm with high DNA integrity. This device has the potential to revolutionise fertility treatments, offering hope for healthy conceptions and families.
The next generation of health and medical graduates will also receive a $10 million boost through the NHMRC Postgraduate Scholarship scheme. Details of all grants are available to download on NHMRC's Outcomes of funding rounds webpage.
Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:
"This landmark investment underlines the Albanese Government's dedication to empowering researchers to turn bold ideas into transformative solutions that will benefit the health and wellbeing of Australians for generations to come.
"The Albanese Government is proud to invest in our world-class medical research sector, to help our researchers transform their ideas into lifesaving interventions for Australians.
"These projects are driving a greater culture of research innovation and carving out pathways to commercialisation of health and medical research.
"Through this investment, we are unlocking new opportunities for researchers to commercialise their discoveries, improve health care, and create a healthier future for all Australians."
Quotes attributable to NHMRC CEO Professor Steve Wesselingh:
"From developing cutting-edge devices to exploring new therapies and treatments, these projects exemplify the creativity and ingenuity of Australian researchers. This funding not only enables bold and transformative ideas but also strengthens our global leadership in health and medical research.
"These funding opportunities support creativity, which I often think is overlooked when it comes to science, giving our researchers the opportunity to challenge existing paradigms and think outside of the box.
"The prospects of research-driven health and medical innovation is something I am very passionate about and I'm excited to see the impacts of these projects in the coming years."
