Industry thought leaders to determine policy direction

Dr Anna Lavelle, CEO of AusBiotech, will convene the AusBiotech Policy Summit this week to further discuss policy directions for advocacy, based on initial consultation with the industry in the July survey and at AusBiotech member briefings held in August.

The first of the fora will determine priorities and a firm platform for policy direction in 2012, in particular preparation for the 2012 and 2013 budget processes. The second for a will focus on advanced manufacturing in response to the Prime Minister’s Task Force on manufacturing, the Opposition’s manufacturing strategy development and the NSW Government’s Industry plan, called for by Deputy Premier Stoner.

The Prime Minister’s Task Force on manufacturing has been appointed to map out a shared vision for the future of Australia's manufacturing sector and help strengthen local firms as they adjust to changes in our economy, including the rise of Asia.

The taskforce, drawn from representatives from industry, unions, government and the R&D community, was announced by the Prime Minister at the Future Jobs Forum in October 2011 and met for the first time last week.

AusBiotech is advocating for a greater emphasis on biopharmaceutical and medical device manufacturing and associated issues of value adding and expert assistance.