Research in action: Meet the researchers behind the 2025 Sax Institute Research Action Awards

The Sax Institute’s Research Action Awards recognise researchers whose work is improving health policy, programs and care.

Associate Professor Gustavo Machado and Associate Professor Katinka van de Ven were recognised for research that is helping improve care, strengthen services, and ensure decision-makers have access to the evidence they need to respond to complex health challenges.

In the videos below, they reflect on their work and the importance of ensuring research translates into meaningful improvements in people’s lives.

Improving care for people with back pain

Back pain is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, yet many people receive care that is unnecessary, ineffective, or potentially harmful.

Associate Professor Gustavo Machado (University of Sydney), is working to improve how back pain is managed, including reducing the overuse of opioids and unnecessary medical interventions. His research is helping clinicians, health services and policymakers deliver care that is safer, more effective, and aligned with the best available evidence.

Through this work, Associate Professor Machado is helping ensure people receive the right care at the right time – improving outcomes while supporting more sustainable health systems.

Strengthening alcohol and other drug services through culturally grounded research

Associate Professor Katinka van de Ven (360Edge), is improving alcohol and other drug services by ensuring they are informed by evidence and responsive to community needs.

Her research focuses on strengthening services, particularly those supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, by working closely with Aboriginal organisations, including the Pinangba residential rehabilitation service, to ensure programs are effective, culturally appropriate, and sustainable.

This work is helping to build stronger, more responsive systems of care – ensuring services are better equipped to support the people and communities they serve.

Recognising research that improves lives

The Sax Institute’s Research Action Awards celebrate researchers whose work is driving meaningful improvements in health policy and practice.

By recognising research that translates into real-world impact, the Awards highlight the critical role evidence plays in improving health systems and outcomes for communities across Australia.

Learn more about the Research Action Awards and the researchers recognised for their impact.