Communication

NHMRC has legislated the conduct of public consultation to inform the development of guidelines it issues and approves. NHMRC recognises the importance of consumer and stakeholder input into these guidelines, particularly in the context of difficulties patients have faced in their interactions with the health system.

We intend to produce a guideline that has a person-centred care focus that emphasises patient safety. We will therefore provide numerous opportunities to engage and provide feedback throughout the development process and provide regular updates on progress through our website.

Stakeholder scoping survey

In early 2025 NHMRC will invite comments from individuals and groups regarding relevant topics and issues to be considered for inclusion in the ME/CFS guidelines.

This feedback will be considered by the Guideline Development Committee during the development of the ME/CFS guidelines.

Public consultation opportunities

Planned public consultation opportunities will be communicated on the website and to those subscribed to the contact list.

Consistent with the NHMRC Act, NHMRC will undertake public consultation on the draft guidelines. Stakeholders are encouraged to participate in this process to provide feedback, which will be considered before the guidelines are finalised. Submissions received during public consultation will be published in full on the NHMRC website, with permission.

Communication log

We understand that the guideline process is lengthy, but it is required to ensure a robust and trustworthy final product. To keep interested parties informed, NHMRC will publish regular updates on the guidelines that will include:  

  • a summary of meetings of the guidelines committee
  • status updates of the guidelines
  • requests for information from the public.

The ME/CFS guidelines team may be able to assist with your enquiry by emailing me_cfs@nhmrc.gov.au.

For research-specific queries you can visit the Consumer portal.