The best research includes the people it’s for
Your experience matters. Help shape the future of arthritis research
At Arthritis Australia, we believe research is stronger when informed by the real experiences of people living with arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions. That’s why we work closely with people with lived experience, as well as carers and healthcare professionals, to help guide the future investment in arthritis research in Australia.
By becoming an Arthritis Research Champion, you can help ensure the research we fund reflects the real needs, priorities and experiences of people living with arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions.
What is the Arthritis Research Champions Program?
The Arthritis Australia Research Champions Program connects people with lived experience of arthritis with opportunities to help shape research that can improve treatment, care and quality of life for the arthritis community.
Research Champions work alongside researchers and Arthritis Australia as research partners, contributing valuable perspectives and helping ensure research is relevant and practical.
- People living with arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions
- Parents, carers and family members
- Healthcare professionals interested in improving arthritis research outcomes
What will I be doing as an Arthritis Research Champion
As an Arthritis Research Champion, you may:
Share your lived experience to help guide research priorities Review documents, surveys, or research materials to ensure they are easily understood. Participate in workshops and advisory panels You do not need any previous experience in research. We will provide training, guidance and ongoing support to help you feel confident and informed in your role.
Most opportunities are flexible and can be completed online.
Learn from World-Class Arthritis Researchers
Getting involved as an Arthritis Research Champion is also an opportunity to learn more about arthritis research, emerging treatments, and the research process itself.
Australia is home to world-class arthritis researchers, from emerging early and mid-career investigators driving innovative new ideas to internationally recognised experts leading breakthroughs in arthritis and musculoskeletal research. By working alongside Australia’s researchers and research teams, you can gain insight into how research projects are developed, funded and translated into real-world outcomes for people living with arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions.
Many Research Champions also find that participating helps them:
- Learn more about their condition and current research developments
- Build confidence in discussing research and healthcare topics
- Connect with researchers, healthcare professionals and others with shared experiences
- Feel empowered knowing their lived experience is helping shape future care and treatment
How to Join the Program
Whether you want to share your story, contribute to surveys, join advisory groups or partner directly with researchers, your voice can help shape better research outcomes for the future.
By signing up, you will:
- Receive invitations to submit Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for research projects and involvement opportunities that match your interests
- Stay informed about upcoming research opportunities
- Learn more about consumer involvement in research and how lived experience shapes research outcomes
If you have any questions about our Arthritis Australia Research Champions Program you can email us at info@arthritisaustralia.org.au
Register today and be part of shaping research that matters.