Inclusive by design: an implementation framework for culturally responsive research advisory panels

Abstract Background Culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities remain underrepresented in health research despite experiencing substantial health inequities. Community advisory panels are increasingly recommended to strengthen community engagement, cultural responsiveness, and research relevance; however, there is limited guidance on how to systematically establish, implement, and sustain advisory panels in CALD research contexts. This study aimed to develop and establish the content validity of an implementation framework to guide the implementation of culturally responsive advisory panels in CALD research settings. Methods A two-phase study was undertaken. First, a scoping-informed best-fit framework synthesis integrated concepts from five complementary frameworks spanning Indigenous governance, culturally grounded co-design, cross-cultural research, multicultural health research, and inclusive patient and public involvement. Framework development was supported by concept-to-source mapping and an audit trail documenting adaptation decisions. Second, a two-round modified Delphi study involving experts in multicultural health, implementation science, community engagement, public health, health service delivery, and consumer involvement was conducted to refine the framework and establish content validity through expert consensus. Participants rated framework components on a 9-point Likert scale and provided qualitative feedback to refine it. Results Framework synthesis identified five interconnected domains underpinning advisory panel implementation: (1) Foundational Principles of Cultural Partnership; (2) Community-Centred Panel Composition and Setup; (3) Culturally Responsive Engagement and Co-Design Processes; (4) Structural Supports and Resources for Implementation; and (5) Iterative Reflexivity, Evaluation, and Knowledge Translation. Most components achieved consensus in Round 1. Components relating to recruitment pathways, remuneration and recognition, and institutional support were refined following participant feedback and achieved consensus in Round 2. The framework conceptualises advisory panels as implementation strategies intended to strengthen acceptability, appropriateness, feasibility, fidelity, and sustainability of research conducted with CALD communities. An implementation checklist was developed to support practical application. Conclusions The CALD Advisory Panel Implementation Framework provides an implementation-focused approach to establishing, evaluating, and sustaining advisory panels in multicultural research contexts. By operationalising cultural partnership, co-design, power-sharing, and implementation support processes, the framework offers practical guidance for researchers, institutions, and funders seeking to strengthen meaningful community engagement and reduce tokenistic involvement. Future research should evaluate implementation, feasibility, and effectiveness across diverse settings.