Deadline: 22-Jun-2026
The Chris Silagy Research Grant Program supports early-career general practitioners in conducting research that strengthens evidence-informed decision-making in primary healthcare. The programme focuses on improving clinical practice, policy development, and education in general practice through rigorous, practice-relevant research.
A defining feature of the grant is its emphasis on evidence synthesis and engagement with global research networks, particularly the Cochrane Collaboration.
Programme Overview
The grant supports research projects led by early-career GP researchers with a focus on:
- Evidence-based primary healthcare
- Strengthening clinical decision-making in general practice
- Improving policy and education through research evidence
- Advancing knowledge in primary care systems
- Supporting innovation in evidence-informed medicine
Funding Details
- Grant amount: AUD 15,000 (excluding GST)
- Duration: 12 months
- Target group: Early-career general practitioners and GP registrars
- Purpose: Research in general practice and primary healthcare
Additional support includes:
- Attendance at a Cochrane Collaboration meeting, or
- A visit to a Cochrane Research Centre during the funding period
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be a general practitioner or general practice registrar
- Be the principal investigator and actively lead the research project
- Qualify as an early-career researcher
- Demonstrate either:
- Experience in leading and conducting research, or
- Access to appropriate supervision and research support within the team
Additional requirements:
- Projects must be feasible within a 12-month timeframe
- Applicants must demonstrate capacity to complete research successfully
- Supervision structures are acceptable where early-career researchers require support
Programme Objectives
The grant aims to:
- Strengthen the evidence base in general practice
- Support early-career clinician-researchers
- Improve quality and safety of primary healthcare
- Enhance evidence-informed clinical practice and policy
- Promote engagement with global research networks such as Cochrane
- Build long-term research capability in general practice
Post-Award Requirements
Successful applicants must:
- Formally accept the grant and sign a Grant Agreement
- Participate in a short interview with the Foundation
- Meet defined project milestones and reporting requirements
- Comply with staged funding release conditions
- Acknowledge funding support in all publications and outputs
Expected Outcomes
- Improved evidence-informed decision-making in general practice
- Stronger integration of research into clinical practice
- Increased capacity among early-career GP researchers
- Enhanced use of systematic evidence in healthcare delivery
- Greater engagement with Cochrane and global research communities
- Practical improvements in patient care and health outcomes
Why the Programme Matters
- Strengthens the evidence base for primary healthcare
- Supports development of future research leaders in general practice
- Enhances quality and safety of patient care
- Encourages use of systematic evidence in clinical decisions
- Builds stronger links between research and frontline healthcare
- Promotes global collaboration in medical research
Conclusion
The Chris Silagy Research Grant Program provides targeted funding and professional development opportunities for early-career general practitioners conducting research in primary healthcare. By combining financial support with engagement in the Cochrane network, the programme strengthens evidence-based practice and contributes to improved outcomes in general practice.
For more information, visit Australian General Practice Research Foundation.