This in-depth analysis of the Australian health and medical research (HMR) workforce in 2024 provides insights into the characteristics, career pathways and challenges. The audit highlights issues with gender disparities in senior roles, job insecurity, and the importance of funding stability, and recommends improving data processes to guide future policy.

The audit sought to answer key questions concerning the demographic characteristics of the workforce, funding sources, and the career pathways and movements of researchers. Its focus was on growing an understanding of the segments and features of the HMR workforce that to date have been less comprehensively researched.

Key findings

• There are 39,690 active and 19,700 inactive researchers nationwide.
• Victoria has the highest concentration of HMR professionals, while regional and remote areas face underrepresentation.
• Gender diversity remains a critical issue in the HMR sector, particularly at senior levels.
• The HMR workforce is highly international, contributing to Australia's global research standing.
• The HMR sector comprises both traditional and non-traditional researchers, with a small group working across both areas.
• Employment characteristics vary significantly between traditional and non-traditional sectors.
• Funding sources and challenges differ between sectors, but funding instability remains a common concern.
• Job insecurity is a significant issue in the traditional sector, with 55% of researchers on fixed-term or casual contracts.
• Passion for research and societal impact are key motivators for entering and remaining in HMR. 
• Lack of funding, job insecurity, and work-life balance contributeto a high rate of researchers leaving the field.