This study explores the views and experiences of knowledge translation of 14 Australian public health academics. Capacity to engage in knowledge translation is influenced by factors within the academic context and the interaction of the academic and policy environments. Early and mid-career researchers reported a different set of experiences and pressures to senior researchers. Barriers to knowledge translation reported are largely consistent with prior research. However, this study also emphasised the importance of academic professional identity in research-policy translation. Strategies to enhance research uptake should both address structural barriers and seek to encourage a culture of engagement with public policy.