New innovation plan prioritises investment in genomics research, precision medicine and national research infrastructure

New innovation plan prioritises investment in genomics research, precision medicine and national research infrastructure

The Australia 2030: Prosperity Through Innovation plan released today by Innovation and Science Australia sees investment in genomics research, precision medicine and national research infrastructure as key components in ensuring Australia is a top-tier innovation nation by 2030.

The importance of genomics and research infrastructure investment in the plan was welcomed by Professor Tony Cunningham AO, President of the Association of Australian Medical Research Institutes (AAMRI).

“Genomics research and precision medicine is where we are going to make the next generation of great breakthroughs, finding new treatments for those diseases where there are few options, as well as improving existing treatments through individual drug and treatment matching,” said Professor Cunningham.

Professor Cunningham said achieving the plan’s objectives for Australia to be the healthiest country on Earth by 2030 shows just how important the Medical Research Future Fund is going to be. The Fund will double the government’s annual investment in medical research over the next decade, and crucially, will help turn our great research into new treatments, drugs and medical devices for patients.

The plan also recommends long-term funding be provided to fund national research infrastructure, in accordance with the recommendations of the 2016 National Research Infrastructure Roadmap.

“It is great to see this increased focus and investment in medical research. It will pay long-term economic and health dividends for the nation, but to undertake world-class research we need world-class research infrastructure” said Professor Cunningham

“It was reassuring to see the Government commit $70 million of investment late last year to update the National Computational Infrastructure to help bring this back to world-class standards. AAMRI is looking forward to seeing similar investments in other essential national research infrastructure.”

The Plan was drawn up by the Government established Innovation and Science Board, which is made up of 15 entrepreneurs, investors, researchers and educators, and is chaired by Mr Bill Ferris AC. The report also makes a range of other important recommendations that will ensure Australia gains a bigger share of the $1.6 trillion global innovation race. These recommendations include:

  • setting a minimum level of GDP for government support for science research and innovation.
  • ensuring ongoing access to overseas talent.
  • improved access to government data.
  • a new stream of funding for turning discoveries into new technologies, processes and products.
  • a commitment to achieving greater gender diversity in science, technology, engineering and mathematics workforce.
  • increased career mobility between academia and industry.
  • strengthening STEM education in schools.