The Minns Labor Government has announced the successful recipients of Round 7 of the Prevention Research Support Program (PRSP), awarding $12 million in funding to three research groups. This investment will establish new research streams focused on priority areas in preventive health, infectious disease preparedness, and early-life maternal and child health, enhancing NSW’s research capacity and enabling the translation of evidence into policy and practice to improve health outcomes.
The first research stream, led by Professor Philayrath Phongsavan from the University of Sydney, focuses on preventive health related to obesity, diabetes, and physical activity. The initiative aims to embed population health and preventive care approaches, supporting both primary and secondary prevention for adults and children, and promoting increased physical activity to reduce the prevalence and impact of obesity and diabetes.
The second stream, led by Dr. Jen Kok at the Centre for Infectious Disease and Microbiology – Public Health, Western Sydney Local Health District, concentrates on infectious disease capability, preparedness, and response. This research will enhance resilient surveillance systems for respiratory viruses with pandemic or epidemic potential, improving NSW’s ability to respond to emerging infectious threats.
The third stream, led by Professor Dharmintra Pasupathy from the University of Sydney, addresses maternity and the first 2,000 days of life. It focuses on preventive care, management of alcohol and substance use, and interventions aimed at reducing the primary causes of low birth weight, thereby supporting long-term maternal and child health outcomes.
Each research stream will receive $4 million over four years, from July 2026 to June 2030. The projects involve collaboration among academic institutions, health services, and community organisations, ensuring that research findings are effectively translated into policy and practical interventions across NSW. The program brings together expertise from over 20 organisations to foster innovative, evidence-based solutions that improve health outcomes and reduce inequities.
Minister for Health Ryan Park emphasized the importance of investing in preventive healthcare to keep people healthy and out of hospital, highlighting the collaboration of leading minds across academic, policy, health service, and community sectors. Minister for Research David Harris added that the program will generate the knowledge and evidence necessary to influence both policy and practice, strengthening health systems and community outcomes throughout NSW.
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