DEVELOPMENT OF THE NEXT ESSA RESEARCH STRATEGY

Abstract

INTRODUCTION The generation and use of research is a function within ESSA and the first research strategy was developed for the period 2018 - 2021. Research program activities are diverse. ESSA has hosted the Research Committee and the Publications Committee for 5 years. ESSA has facilitated the development of member-driven Guidelines, Consensus and Position Statements for use by professionals in practice. ESSA has hosted an annual Research Grant Program and a biannual scientific conference. This paper outlines the research strategy development project. METHODS The previous strategy delivered research grants and ESSA publications. Investments were made into administration and research governance including release of the ESSA Research Publications Development Guideline. Consultation on the development of the next Research Strategy included presentations and surveys to engage members, key stakeholders and staff about: the program; the key strategy pillars; principles; and actions. Actions were assessed for feasibility and priority. RESULTS The outcomes of the consultation on the ESSA Research Strategy 2023-2026 identified four pillars of capacity building, engagement, translation and data, and research for policy and practice priorities. The use of research publications by ESSA accredited professionals and industry will be guided by a translation framework, aligning with the objectives of the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Translation Strategy 2022-2025, the resources of the National Centre of Implementation Science and the ESSA Strategic Plan. This will support members to leverage research findings, to encourage researchers to develop translation collateral and to implement new research results. The strategy will have actions, references and tools to help accredited professionals to engage in research translation. CONCLUSIONS The Research Strategy and translation framework will be outlined. The paper will include examples relating to physical activity. ESSA’s next Research Strategy is to further support research generation and use by ESSA accredited professionals, staff and the industry.