As 2024 draws to a close, I would like to take the opportunity to reflect on the accomplishments of the Office for Health and Medical Research over the past 12 months and to acknowledge my colleagues for their dedication. I also want to recognise the contributions of our partners and organisations that collaborated with us on this work.
In May of this year, I was appointed as Executive Director of the Office for Health and Medical Research and welcomed on board with great warmth and generosity. Since starting this role, I have been greatly impressed by the depth and range of skills and expertise of the team and their valuable contributions to the NSW health sector.
NSW is recognised as having one of the best health systems in the world, and the Office is proud to contribute to that consistently high standard with its support for healthcare innovation, advancement and delivery through its wide range of programs and initiatives.
Throughout 2024 we partnered with local health districts, pillar organisations, researchers, experts and entrepreneurs, primary care providers and the non-government sector. This collaborative work supports the richness and diversity of the NSW health research ecosystem we work within. By showcasing the work of the state’s researchers and institutions to national and global audiences, we are providing opportunities for stronger partnerships to ensure the people of NSW benefit from optimal healthcare policy, options, systems and delivery, whether they live in cities or in rural and remote regions.
This year we also played a central role in the development of a new NSW Health Research and Innovation Strategy. The strategy sets a clear vision for the future – a vibrant research and innovation ecosystem that improves the experience of delivering and receiving care, system efficiency and sustainability, and equity in access and health outcomes. I’m excited to report that we expect to publish early in 2025, and we look forward to working together to bring the strategy to life.
During the past 12 months, the Office has provided funding, infrastructure, and support to guide health and medical researchers and innovators through the research pipeline, from basic science to proof of concept, development and clinical trials, through to commercialisation. Underpinning and guiding this work are NSW Health’s core frameworks and strategies for regional health, Aboriginal health, the workforce plan and NSW Future Health.
The Office has continued to progress an ambitious agenda in priority areas including clinical trials, advanced therapeutics, research investment, research ethics and governance, technical innovation and commercialisation. Key achievements in 2024 include:
• progressing cutting edge research and innovation
• closing the gap in Aboriginal health
• expanding use of non-animal technologies
• providing infrastructure and research funding support
• advancing work in RNA and viral vector manufacturing
• recognising research administrators
• driving commercialisation
• supporting clinical trials
• evaluation and outcome reports.
Please take the time to read more about these key achievements on our website.
I am looking forward to working with the amazing teams across the Office and with our partners during 2025, but first, it is time to relax and recharge our batteries. So, as the holidays fast approach and you spend time with family and friends, I wish you safe travels and a restful and rejuvenating festive season and summer break.
Wishing you health and happiness throughout the holiday season.
Dr Kim Sutherland
Executive Director
