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The Government of Victoria is advancing research and innovation in medical technology by supporting local scientists in developing next-generation mRNA vaccines and treatments. This initiative is expected to have a significant impact not only in Victoria but globally, contributing to breakthroughs that will save lives.
The Minister for Economic Growth visited the St Vincent’s Institute of Medical Research to announce the latest beneficiaries of the Labor Government’s mRNA Victoria Research Acceleration Fund. Through this initiative, more than 15 research teams based in Victoria are set to share AU$2.1 million in funding. The primary goal of this funding is to fast-track the development of mRNA-based solutions for challenging health conditions such as HIV, inflammatory diseases, and cancers that are particularly difficult to treat.
Among the recipients of this funding is St Vincent’s Institute of Medical Research, which will receive an AU$ 100,000 grant to focus on new treatments for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. This disease affects over 5 million Australians and has emerged as a significant risk factor for serious conditions like cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Leveraging mRNA editing technology, the institute aims to develop innovative therapies that address this pressing public health issue.
In addition to St Vincent’s Institute, several other cutting-edge research organisations and start-ups are poised to make major advancements. One such example is a local biotech start-up that is using mRNA therapeutics to target genetic brain diseases. This effort highlights the growing role of biotechnology in addressing previously untreatable or hard-to-treat conditions. Another recipient of funding is focusing its efforts on gene therapy aimed at combating inflammatory diseases. Both projects underscore the transformative potential of mRNA technology, which is being harnessed to develop therapies that could revolutionise medical care.
The mRNA Victoria Research Acceleration Fund plays a crucial role in supporting these efforts. Over the past years, this initiative has backed 57 research projects, each aimed at pushing the boundaries of medical science. By providing researchers with the resources they need, the government is helping unlock new possibilities in the fields of medicine and vaccines. The backing of these projects is also expected to contribute to the establishment of a world-leading mRNA industry in Victoria.
A major factor in Victoria’s growing prominence in the mRNA sector is the presence of key industry players who have chosen Victoria as a strategic location to host their research, development, and manufacturing operations. This development is particularly noteworthy, as Victoria is set to become the only region globally where both of these mRNA giants maintain a significant presence. The establishment of these hubs positions the state as a leader in the mRNA field and is expected to attract further investment and collaboration in the sector.
The growth of the mRNA industry also aligns with Victoria’s broader role in the pharmaceutical sector. Currently, the state is responsible for nearly 60 percent of Australia’s pharmaceutical exports, a significant achievement that supports over 100,000 full-time jobs within the biotech sector. This industrial growth is being driven, in part, by the state’s thriving research community, which has long been a leader in medical innovation.
Over the past decade, the Victoria Government has invested more than AU$1 billion into medical research, creating the conditions for Victoria to emerge as a global leader in this field. This sustained commitment to research and development has resulted in numerous breakthroughs, enhancing treatment and patient care outcomes across a range of conditions.
The Minister for Economic Growth emphasised that continued investment in the biotech sector not only saves lives but also fuels industry expansion. This work is central to Victoria’s strategy to maintain leadership in the Asia-Pacific region, promising next-generation vaccines and therapies for challenging medical conditions.
