Payment guidance
General advice
These rates are intended for guidance only and are not mandatory. The below minimum rates should be offered to recompense consumer or community representatives for their involvement in research.
The actual rate paid should reflect industry and discipline norms, including guidance shared by peak bodies. The below represent minimum rates where such guidance is not available.
Some panels may stipulate higher rates depending on the discipline and/or the nature of the activity involved.
Hourly rates refer to the duration of the specified activity only. If additional time is required, e.g. for preparation prior to meetings, it should be costed in accordingly.
The Advisory and/or Co-production roles are likely to be most relevant for developing grant applications.
Fees to access these panels will be discussed as part of your application process.
Recommended pay rates
| Role | Activity | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Attendance at training session | Participation in training | $45 / hour |
| Member of standing panel | Participation in panel meeting | $50 / hour |
| Focus group participant | Group consultation | $55 / hour |
| Advisory |
| $70 / hour (2 hour minimum) |
| Co-production | Expert or Lived Experience contribution to research design | $75 / hour (2 hour minimum) |
| Co-investigator | Ongoing expert or Lived Experience contribution to research project | Refer to academic pay scales |
Additional information
Other costs may also be claimed in addition to, or as an alternative to direct payment. These could include:
- Donation to an organisation
- In-kind support provided to an organisation
- Accessibility costs, e.g. mobility, technology, interpreter
Consumer panels may also contribute in ways which do not incur a cost, such as onward referral to members of relevant networks.