Response to the Medical Research Future Fund research missions evaluation

The George Institute for Global Health has responded to the Australian Government's evaluation of the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) Research Missions Program, highlighting opportunities to strengthen its impact and better support improved health outcomes for Australians.

We support continued investment in the MRFF and its role in driving mission‑oriented research. However, stronger alignment with national research priorities, particularly the forthcoming National Health and Medical Research Strategy 2026-2036 is needed to improve coordination and maximise impact.

Key recommendations from our submission include:

• Aligning MRFF Missions with national priorities to improve coordination across the research system.
• Increasing investment in shared research infrastructure to reduce duplication and boost efficiency.
• Addressing funding gaps for indirect research costs to support sustainability and translation.
• Strengthening research translation, including partnerships with policymakers and clinicians.
• Prioritising emerging challenges such as cardiometabolic disease, health systems research, and sepsis.

Together, these actions will help ensure MRFF investments deliver meaningful improvements in health outcomes and a more sustainable health system.