Q&A with Susan Campbell, Consumer Review Committee member

Blog: Monday 23 March 2026

Make a difference in heart health: Join our Consumer Review Committees

At the Heart Foundation, we know that research is stronger when it reflects the real experiences and priorities of the people it aims to support. That’s why we invite community members to take part in our Consumer Review Committees, a volunteer role that helps ensure heart health research stays grounded in lived experience and community need.

Our committee members bring insight, compassion, and lived experience to the assessment process for research funding applications. Whether you’ve been personally affected by heart disease, have supported a loved one, or simply want to help drive meaningful change in heart health, your voice matters deeply.

This year, we spoke with Susan Campbell, one of our thoughtful and dedicated Consumer Review Panellists. Susan shares how her family’s long history with heart disease motivated her to get involved, what the experience has meant to her, and why she encourages others to take part.

2. What was your experience like as a Consumer Review Panellist?

When I first joined the Consumer Review Panel, the team at the Heart Foundation provided information and training about the grant application process, including what my role involved and how to use the Grants Management Portal. This training was delivered by a webinar and recorded so I could revisit it later if needed.  I also received training on how to score and rank the grant applications that were allocated to me for review. I found the whole review process easy to follow, and help was always available. 

I was impressed by the ingenuity of the grant applications submitted and by the wide range of research areas focused on preventing and managing heart disease. It made me realise just how many different approaches there are to potentially prevent and manage heart disease. It was a real eye‑opener!

3. What was the most rewarding part of being involved in the review process?

I like the way that the Heart Foundation has structured the Grants Program to include an opportunity for consumers to participate in the assessment of grant applications, along with the medical experts. It’s very rewarding to be part of a highly regarded research program that has a positive impact on the lives of the many people in Australia affected by heart disease. 

4. What would you say to someone considering joining the panel this year?

I’d encourage anyone who has a connection with heart disease to join the Consumer Panel. Your personal experience with heart disease will help shape the outcome of the research funded by including your ‘first hand’ experiences into the assessment process. This will assist the Heart Foundation to deliver a research program that has a positive and far-reaching impact on reducing heart disease in Australia. 

5. Any final thoughts or advice for new panellists?

Your participation in the Review Committees is very much appreciated by the Heart Foundation. It’s great to be involved in an organisation where you can make a difference. 

If you are passionate about improving heart health and want to play a role in shaping future research, we’d love to hear from you.

Register your interest