Q&A with Dr Becky Freeman

In public health, the intersection between research and policy can generate significant change to improve health and wellbeing across the social spectrum. At the Sax Institute, we promote the importance of translating research into real-world outcomes in many ways, including with our annual Research Action Awards. These recognise researchers who have significantly influenced health policy, programs, or service delivery, making substantial contributions to public health. Applications for the Awards are now open – learn more here.

The work of Becky Freeman, an Associate Professor at the School of Public Health at the University of Sydney, offers a great example of how impactful research can shape public health policy.

With over 20 years of experience in tobacco control and a keen interest in how social media influences public health, Becky’s work on vaping provides crucial insights into the process of translating research into policy.

Watch a recording of our discussion with Becky here:

Policy-driven research

Associate Professor Freeman emphasises the importance of research being useful and valuable in the real world, rather than just appearing in academic journals. Her goal is to provide evidence that informs policy responses, especially in areas where current policies may not be effective.

“To me, that’s the main impetus for doing this research—knowing that what we had in place, the policy where nicotine is a Schedule 7 poison and nicotine vapes aren’t legal to be sold, you had to have a prescription to get your hands on one, yet we’re seeing vapes being sold everywhere. Clearly, our policy is not working,” Associate Professor Freeman explained.

Building relationships

Long-term relationships with public servants, policymakers, and NGOs are crucial for research impact. Associate Professor Freeman has built these relationships over years of collaboration on various projects. These connections allow her to stay engaged with the policy process and ensure that her research findings are considered in policy discussions.

Engaging policymakers from the beginning of a research project is essential. Associate Professor Freeman works closely with policymakers throughout her research process, ensuring that the data she collects is relevant and useful for policy decisions. This ongoing communication helps to align research goals with policy needs.

“You work with people you like to work with, you get invited to the table, and it’s a dialog back and forth. One of the most valuable things you can do as a public health academic who wants to influence the policy space is to work with NGOs. They understand that they need to push for policy change, bring the public along with them, and bring MPs along with them. They want to be evidence-based, and as an academic, that’s the part I can contribute.”

“Being committed, forming relationships, being useful, valuable, and responsive are key. It doesn’t mean you never criticize the government. When you have strong relationships, you can sometimes step back and say, “I don’t support that move the government made.” There’s trust, and you can do that.”

Responding to evidence needs

Researchers should be responsive to the needs of policymakers and public servants. Preparing briefing papers and providing timely answers to questions are critical components of being a valuable resource. This responsiveness builds trust and ensures that research findings are used effectively.

Translating research findings into actionable policy recommendations is crucial. Associate Professor Freeman works to distil complex research into meaningful impacts that can be easily understood and acted upon by policymakers. This translation process is essential for ensuring that research leads to real-world changes.

“Having excellent relationships with public servants, who you can help prepare briefing papers for and respond to their emails quickly, makes you a valuable resource,” Becky explained. “Then, when it’s time to ask questions like, ‘What’s going on with vaping? We need some answers here,’ you’ll be the person they turn to.”

Commitment to long-term advocacy

Effective public health advocacy requires a long-term commitment. Associate Professor Freeman advises researchers to be patient and persistent, recognising that policy change can take many years and involves numerous small wins along the way.

“My students often ask, ‘What can we do to be effective public health advocates?’ I tell them, first of all, you need to be in it for the long term,” Becky said. “Plain packaging is a good example. The UK Medical Association pitched it in the 1980s, and we didn’t see it become policy in Australia until 2012. That’s a long time, with lots of little wins along the way.”

Apply for the Sax Institute Research Action Awards

If you are a researcher who has made a significant impact on health policy, programs, or service delivery, consider applying for the Sax Institute’s Research Action Awards. These awards honor individuals whose research has led to meaningful changes in health outcomes. Applications are currently open, offering a valuable opportunity to gain recognition for your work and its impact. For more details and to apply, visit the Sax Institute’s website.