Regulatory pathways mapped out

The federal government has launched an internet tool for the biotechnology industry to help it navigate Australia's biotechnology regulations.

Launched at AusBiotech last week by industry minister Ian Macfarlane, Bioregs Online is aimed at biotech companies, researchers and investors wanting to find out about the government's regulatory requirements for biotechnology.

"This new website has been developed in response to industry's call for greater transparency in biotechnology regulations," Macfarlane said.

"BioRegs Online provides customised regulatory and development pathways for specific biotech products, helping users to navigate the right approvals process, saving them time and money."

BioRegs Online was developed by Biotechnology Australia and regulatory agencies, working with industry associations and biotech companies.

The service also provides information on technology licensing, intellectual property and business planning.

"BioRegs Online will now help to simplify compliance with those regulations," Macfarlane said.

"Biotechnology is one of Australia's fastest growing and most exciting new industries and BioRegs Online will enable the technology to be used more widely."

The website is at www.bioregs.gov.au