The government is now operating in accordance with the Guidance on Caretaker Conventions, pending the outcome of the 2025 federal election.

National Health and Medical Research Strategy Interdepartmental Committee

The National Health and Medical Research Strategy Interdepartmental Committee (IDC) supports the development of the National Health and Medical Research Strategy (National Strategy).

Role 

The IDC provides a regular forum for Australian Government departments and agencies interested in the establishment of the National Strategy. The functions of the IDC are to:  

  • provide guidance on relevant new and emerging policy developments and linkages across health and medical research and other sectors 
  • discuss and share knowledge relevant to the National Strategy 
  • provide input and feedback on specific topics raised by the National Strategy development team 
  • identify any governance, policy or other issues that may support or impact the progress of the National Strategy 
  • contribute to risk identification and mitigation and the resolution of issues where appropriate 
  • ensure the National Strategy aligns with strategic activities and plans of other government departments and agencies 
  • collaborate on cross-portfolio priorities so the National Strategy aligns with the activities and plans of government departments and agencies 
  • advise on the establishment of working groups that will progress specific policy tasks agreed by the IDC. 

The IDC does not remove the need for in-depth consultation with Australian Government agencies. We will engage separately with IDC departments and agencies as required.  

Members

Agency Role 
Department of Health and Aged Care Co–chair 
Deputy chair 
Observer 
Secretariat 
National Health and Medical Research Council Co–chair 
Member 
Member 
Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet  Member 
Department of Finance Member 
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade  Member 
Department of Industry, Science and Resources Member 
Member 
Australian Research Council Member 
Department of Education Member 
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) Member 
Cancer Australia Member 
Australian Nuclear Science Technology Organisation Member 
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare Member 
National Indigenous Australians Agency Point of Engagement 

Meetings

The IDC will meet approximately every 10 to 12 weeks, or as otherwise determined by the co-chairs. 

Contact

National Health and Medical Research Strategy contact

Email us for more information about the National Health and Medical Research Strategy.
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