Australia is justifiably proud of its health and medical research, and the knowledge it creates.
The translation of new knowledge from here and overseas into state-of-the-art therapies and treatments is supported by a vibrant clinical trial sector in Australia.
We are good, but we can be better. And we need to be because other countries are adapting and adjusting to simplify and encourage more research and its translation into health care.
That’s why we are working on national reforms.
The objective is simple: we need to improve how we support research and encourage the use of new knowledge into better treatment options for Australians, accompanied by high standards of care and ethical conduct.
The Inter-Governmental Policy Reform Group leads these national reforms.
The first major step is a National One Stop Shop for clinical trials.
The new and secure system will make it easier to find, conduct and participate in research.
The second, a national framework embeds the governance of clinical trials into routine operations of health services.
The framework ensures that sites conducting trials comply with standards, operate in a consistent way – and that consumers are involved in their care.
The third, national standard operating procedures provide consistent guidance for those conducting clinical trials.
They help protect participant safety, promote best practice, and ensure data is secure.
Finally, accreditation for committees that review the ethics of human-based research.
We want to build on our strong reputation for quality and integrity while maximising the benefits of new knowledge.
Together, the reforms drive a consistent national approach so that more Australians get early access to emerging treatments.
For more information visit australianclinicaltrials.gov.au.
This video provides an overview on national reforms to support clinical trials in Australia and why they are important.