Media Release 16 July 2024
The national peak body for health and medical research and innovation, Research Australia, welcomes today’s release of a new RNA blueprint for growing medical manufacturing by the Federal Government.
Australia’s RNA Blueprint: Understanding our ribonucleic acid (RNA) potential outlines Australians current RNA capability and opportunities for future growth and capability building.
Research Australia welcomes the Department of Industry, Science and Resources’ recognition of the need for governments, academia and industry to work together on the blueprint’s 5 goals and actions, which include:
- Connect and promote our national RNA ecosystem
- Increase skills and access to infrastructure
- Improve research, translation and investment
- Lead RNA regulation and guidance development
- Build and strengthen international partnerships
Whilst the potential actions outlined within the blueprint are welcome, there are a number of policy reforms government could implement to better support local health innovators and manufacturers, including:
- Better supporting innovators with early-stage development advice through the TGA on prospective treatments and devices to assist in bringing products to the Australian marker quicker
- Government procurement as a tool to support Australian innovations
- Better supporting innovators in the progression of research to translation and commercialisation.
- Better support to attract and retain innovation and manufacturing in Australia.
“Australian health innovation represents 26% of all Australian R&D activity. Australia is leading the world in many health technologies but bringing them to market more quickly and efficiently is key to facilitating better commercial, economic and social outcomes for Australia and Australians.” Nadia Levin, CEO & Managing Director of Research Australia said.
“Australia needs a strong and thriving medical manufacturing industry to ensure Australians have access to world-leading therapies and technologies. This can only be achieved when government, academia and industry work together.”
“Research Australia was pleased to be able to contribute to the consultation on this blueprint and look forward to working with Government to progress the actions outlined by the Department.”
