The New Zealand Tobacco Control Research Strategy

Read the strategy here (PDF format)

Tobacco control research is an important facet of a comprehensive tobacco control programme. Research helps provide a picture of tobacco use in a country, as well as the health, social, cultural and economic impacts of tobacco use on individuals, communities and the country as a whole.

In a health sector with a limited budget, research is a valuable tool in determining priority areas for expenditure. Research is a critical aspect of evaluation of tobacco control programmes, helping to direct scarce resources into programmes that have potential for significant impact, and highlighting areas that require more specific interventions. Without adequate research, government agencies, other programme funders and programme providers would not have a clear indication of where to target resources and interventions for the maximum benefit.

However, historically there was no national strategy to focus and co-ordinate tobacco-related research in New Zealand. Available funding has been competitive and fragmented, with no dedicated fund for tobacco-control research.

Allen & Clarke facilitated the development of the Strategy, preparing drafts and assisting with consultation exercises to inform its final content. The Strategy was publicly launched by Hon Damien O 'Connor, Associate Minister of Health, in May 2003.

Allen & Clarke also now assists with the Secretariat services for the Tobacco Control Research Strategy Steering Group, a group charged with the implementation of the Strategy.