getting started

introduction

An overview of the Program and self-learning modules

Resources

Some guides to help you get as your build your consumer relationship

references

Handy references to support your consumer involvement journey

more about

CCI

why should you participate?

All research students are expected to participate in the Consumer and Community Involvement Program. We know that embedding consumers at every point of the project improves the integrity of our research. However, it’s important to realise that consumer involvement is also about building your skills to translate your studies into meaningful information for the community.

We’ll support you on this journey by helping you match with a consumer buddy, translate your work and guide the partnership along.

formal training

OPUS Associate Investigator, Dr Darshini Ayton, a Monash Partners Fellow, public health researcher and qualitative/mixed methods extraordinaire, has built a Consumer and Community Involvement self-guided learning module for researchers. All research students participating in this program must complete the modules prior to commencing their studies.

support

staff

We’re here to help you every step of the way and to make your experience as smooth and rewarding as possible!

michelle lam

claire weeden

lauren patten

amanuiel taddese

information

Resources

Below you will find a directory of resources that are available to help you as you navigate through the Program.

researcher information pack

Orientation handbook

CCAG Terms of Reference

Code of conduct

Roles and Responsibilities:

At OPUS

Roles & Responsibilities:

Researchers

Roles & Responsibilities:

Consumers

Remuneration Guidelines

Complaints and Disputes

COVIDSafe Meetings and Workshops

COVIDSafe Kitchen and dining spaces

Tips on getting started

Writing in Plain English

Research Evaluation (End of year)

tips to get started your initial contact

We know it can be daunting, but here are some considerations to try when you engage with your consumer:

Set some ground rules first: How are you going to run your meetings? What time/ days of the week are best to contact outside of meetings?
Who is expected to attend and what is expected of the consumer during these meetings?
What technology are you going to use for these meetings? Ensure you make it as simple and easy to use as possible – no one likes to fluff around and waste time! We can prepare instructions to use technology if needed.
How are you going to gain feedback from your consumer?
Talk to the Consumer Liaison Officer or OPUS Manager if you have any engagement concerns/queries. We can sit in on your initial meetings until both parties are comfortable.

references

Useful links to well established consumer organisations and partners to further strengthen and inform your consumer journey.

Musculoskeletal Australia is a consumer advocacy organisation working with, and advocating on behalf of, people with arthritis, osteoporosis, back pain, gout and other musculoskeletal conditions. OPUS has a close partnership with MSK Australia in strategically developing research projects that target the needs of people living with musculoskeletal conditions.

Australian Clinical Trials is an Australian Government register of all clinical trials conducted in Australia. The link on the left will take you to an excellent page full of resources to explain what a clinical trial is and how consumers can play a role.

Australian Clinical Trials Alliance is an Australian Government register of all clinical trials conducted in Australia. The link on the left will take you to an excellent page full of resources to explain what a clinical trial is and how consumers can play a role.

Cancer Australia is an Australian Government register of all clinical trials conducted in Australia. The link on the left will take you to an excellent page full of resources to explain what a clinical trial is and how consumers can play a role.

Feedback

got questions and comments? let us know