Review of Independent Medical Research Institutes Welcomed

The Australian Government's review of independent Medical Research Institutes (iMRIs) has been welcomed by the Association of Australian Medical Research Institutes (AAMRI).
Health Minister Peter Dutton announced the review would identify what is required to ensure iMRIs continue to make a strong contribution to health and medical research in Australia.
AAMRI President Professor Doug Hilton said the review was an opportunity to showcase the efficiency and impact of the iMRI sector on improved health and economic outcomes for the nation, and to find ways for the sector and government to together achieve the best possible outcomes for the health of the community.
"The review is an opportunity to examine how these organisations currently operate and relate to the wider Australian health and medical research community, and how well positioned they are to respond to the opportunities presented by the Medical Research Future Fund,” Mr Dutton said.
"As non-profit organisations, iMRIs receive the majority of their funding through competitive grants for research projects through the National Health and Medical Research Council. "The panel will consider and make recommendations for improving the viability and competitiveness of iMRIs, with a focus on increasing efficiency and collaboration,” he added.
Professor Hilton said  iMRIs have a distinct and vital role to play in ensuring health and medical research is translated into improved health outcomes for all Australians.
“Medical research institutes work side-by-side with universities, hospitals and health service providers to provide a direct interface between cutting-edge research and clinical practice,” Professor Hilton said. “As nimble, mission-based organisations with strong connections with the community, they focus on areas of genuine community need, and attract significant philanthropic and private sector funding into health and medical research.”
The Review is expected to be completed by the end of January 2015 and will include consultation with state and territory governments, medical research institutes and universities.
The members of the review panel are:

• Professor Graeme Samuel AC (Chair),


• Mr Alastair Lucas AM


• Mr Matthew Grounds, and


• Professor Warwick Anderson AM.