Exploring sustainability models for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander research in diabetes and cardiovascular disease

Earlier this month, Lowitja Institute partnered with MTPConnect and AusHSI to co-host the Targeted Translation Research Accelerator (TTRA) Program Forum, ‘Exploring sustainability models for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander research in diabetes and cardiovascular disease’.

The TTRA program is a Medical Research Future Fund initiative that aims to develop or progress innovations in preventative, diagnostic, therapeutic, and/or disease management care for diabetes and cardiovascular disease). $5.9 million in grant funding was awarded to six projects, many of which are led by or undertaken in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community controlled organisations.

The event, held at the Koorie Heritage Trust in Naarm, provided a unique opportunity to bring together the TTRA Round 3-funded projects, researchers, community partners, government representatives, peak bodies, philanthropic, and other funders. This was a unique opportunity to bring together people working on the ground in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health research along with those responsible for funding and enabling that work. It provided a forum to discuss shared challenges in achieving research sustainability and to explore opportunities to better support the long-term implementation and impact of research findings.

The event showcased projects funded through the TTRA program, with teams presenting their research, sharing cross-project learnings, and highlighting the positive outcomes their work is delivering for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and wellbeing. We heard from team members who travelled across Country to share their stories with us, providing a platform to hear powerful Aboriginal voices grounded in relational accountability, cultural safety, respect for cultural authority, and community governance. Attendees learned from those on the ground who are conducting research and sharing innovative strength-based and place-based solutions.

We heard about a Yolŋu-led, family-centred mobile health service for improving cardiometabolic health; a peer education support for young people with Type 2 diabetes in the Big Rivers region; and a holistic model of care co-designed for pregnant women in South Australia experiencing cardiometabolic complications.  

The discussions also focused on how to address the ongoing challenge of sustainability and better support community-led research. Stakeholders highlighted the lack of stable, long-term funding and the resulting ‘stop-start’ approach to research translation. This was noted to have significant flow-on effects, including reduced health benefits, disruption to workforce stability, weakened relationships and social capital, a lower likelihood of future research participation, and limited implementation of approaches proven to be effective.

As Professor Alex Brown, from The Telethon Kids Institute, observed:

‘Sustainability requires action and commitment from everyone — we must work together to support community-led solutions over the long term.’

Thank you to everyone who presented and shared their insights on the day – many travelling huge distances to join us.

TTRA project partner and Lowitja Institute representatives.