Drought Relief for the Biotech Sector

Monday 11 August, 2008

The BioMelbourne Network’s response to the Victorian Government’s Innovation Statement released today. 

The following is a quote from Michelle Gallaher, CEO of the Network.

‘We are thirsty for some good news regarding funding for biotech and it seems the Victorian Government’s Innovation Statement released today by Premier Brumby and Minister Jennings will provide some relief.

It is well known that Victoria is Australia’s leader in medical research and biotechnology, therefore it is gratifying to see the State Government assist in translating this leadership into biotech jobs as well as health and agricultural benefits for all Australians.

To use an agricultural biotech analogy, we need the ongoing support of governments to keep this young sector alive. Without a helping-hand from government, good ideas will wither on the vine.

Many Victorian biotech organisations are anxiously waiting to hear the outcome of the Commonwealth Innovation Review and if there will be a potential successor to the Commercial Ready program.  The Commonwealth’s axing of Commercial Ready has been a bitter blow for the biotech sector.

The Victorian government clearly recognises the immediate value as well as the longer term potential of biotechnology to so many aspects of the Victorian and national economy. They have once again provided opportunity and encouragement for the sector to continue to generate ideas and power ahead’. 

End

Michelle Gallaher

Chief Executive Officer

0417 784 856