Biomedical Research Victoria

The Bio21 Cluster has transitioned to a new statewide organisation, Biomedical Research Victoria, which will represent teaching hospitals, universities, research institutions, the CSIRO and other organisations whose scientists make up the medical research community.

The new organisation was launched by Gordon Rich-Phillips, the Victorian Minister for Technology, with the Victorian Government providing $167,000 in funding for the transition.

“The new organisation, Biomedical Research Victoria, will include Monash University, the major medical research institutes in the Clayton Precinct and other universities and research-active hospitals across Victoria,” Rich-Phillips said.

“Biomedical Research Victoria will create a Victorian biomedical research approach that is international in focus, more collaborative and efficient.”

According to Rich-Phillips, the life sciences industry in Victoria employs an estimated 10,000 people and recently generated annual sales in excess of $8 billion.

The new statewide group will provide a way for scientists to work with government to create the policies, infrastructure and a supportive environment needed to keep pace with the emerging life sciences centres in the region.

Professor Ian Gust, Chair of Bio21 Cluster and Chair of the Minister’s Victorian Biotechnology Advisory Council, said that the new funding will provide opportunities for global collaboration.

“The move of Bio21 Cluster to the new, statewide organisation will be  important for the linking capabilities it will provide, particularly to international organisations and industry,” Professor Gust said.