Synergy Grants 2027 proposed updates - public consultation

Overview

The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) is seeking feedback on 3 proposed key changes for the Synergy Grant scheme from 2027: 

1. Introducing 'Team capability' to replace individual Chief Investigator track record assessment.
2. Introducing a new assessment criterion - 'Potential for impact'.
3. Replacing the '2-stage' peer review process with a single-stage review.

NHMRC believes these proposed changes will significantly reduce burden on scheme participants and broaden the scope of potential applicants, while continuing to uphold the scheme's aims and objectives.

Why your views matter

Your feedback will help ensure that these updates reflect the views and perspectives from the sector. 

NHMRC welcomes your submissions, which will help inform these updates, due for implementation from the 2027 Synergy Grants round onwards.

Please review the included consultation document before completing your submission, and feel free to bring this consultation to the attention of interested colleagues. 

The closing date for this consultation is Tuesday, 19 May 2026. If you need assistance, please email synergy.grants@nhmrc.gov.au.