The Sax Institute is proud to welcome the Heart Research Institute (HRI) as a new Member, strengthening our collective effort to translate research into real-world health impact. With the addition of HRI, the Sax Institute now has 78 Member organisations spanning research, policy and practice.
For more than three decades, HRI has been at the forefront of cardiovascular research – working to prevent and treat the world’s leading cause of death. From uncovering the biological drivers of heart disease to developing new diagnostics and therapies, the Institute brings together clinicians and scientists to turn discovery into better patient outcomes.
Today, HRI is home to more than 190 researchers and staff working across 15 research labs and centres, with a global network of over 800 collaborations spanning 44 countries.
From discovery to real-world impact
Cardiovascular disease remains one of Australia’s most significant health challenges – accounting for almost 12% of the total burden of disease and more than $17 billion in annual health system expenditure.
HRI’s work is focused on addressing this challenge head-on, with research that spans prevention, screening, treatment and health system improvement. This includes world-leading work in areas such as:
- Atrial fibrillation screening and stroke prevention
- Cardiovascular complications linked to diabetes
- Inflammation and atherosclerosis.
Through initiatives such as self-screening programs in GP clinics and wearable technology pilots in the community, HRI is translating research into practical solutions that improve care and reduce risk across populations.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health
HRI is also strongly committed to partnering with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health organisations and communities to increase participation, governance and leadership that will contribute to the closing of health and education gaps and significantly reduce the higher burden of disease experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
A key driver of this work is the Djurali Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Research and Education, which delivers practical, impactful solutions grounded in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander values and cultures, bringing together diverse knowledge systems to grow and learn together.
“Cardiovascular disease is one of the biggest killers facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and communities, says Associate Professor Aunty Carmen Parter, Principal Researcher and Cultural Lead at the Djurali Centre. “We look forward to working together with the Sax Institute, because improvements in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and wellbeing is strengthened through such joint efforts.”
A shared focus on translation and impact
HRI’s commitment to bridging the gap between research and practice aligns closely with the Sax Institute’s mission to improve health through evidence.
“We’re delighted to welcome the Heart Research Institute as the newest Sax Institute Member, says Sax Institute CEO Dr Martin McNamara. “Their leadership in cardiovascular research and strong focus on translating evidence into real-world outcomes aligns closely with our mission to improve health through the use of evidence.”
HRI brings deep expertise in working across disciplines and sectors – from laboratory science through to clinical trials, policy and implementation – ensuring research delivers meaningful outcomes for patients and communities.
“At the Heart Research Institute, our focus is on turning scientific discovery into real-world impact,” says Professor Andrew Coats AO, HRI’s Scientific Director and CEO. “Becoming a Member of the Sax Institute will help amplify that impact by connecting our research with the broader evidence and policy ecosystem at the state and national level.”
Benefits of membership
Sax Institute membership offers organisations a unique network of leaders in public health and health services research. Member benefits include:
- Opportunities to engage with policymakers and decision-makers to help ensure evidence has a greater impact on health outcomes
- Being part of a national community committed to strengthening the role of research in policy and practice
- Being able to apply for our annual Research Action Awards, which recognise researchers whose work has positively impacted policy or practice
- Discounted fee on submissions to Public Health Research & Practice, the Sax Institute’s peer-reviewed journal.
Becoming a Member of the Sax Institute is free of charge. Find out more about our application process here.
PUBLICATION DATE
18 May 2026
