New policy framework needed for medical research: Research Australia

Research Australia is expected next month to unveil a major new policy framework which it hopes will lead to more investment and greater collaboration around medical research in Australia.

The announcement comes just one day after the Labor federal government was narrowly returned to power, prolonging the life of its much-debated R&D Tax Credit legislation, which would have been dropped immediately had the coalition got across the line first.

Both sides of the house argue that they have done the most for Australian science and innovation. However, Labor was the only major party to make any policy announcements in this area during the campaign, which included affirming its commitment to existing programs including the ARC and CRC, as well as making undertakings to foster more international collaborations for local researchers.

Nevertheless, Research Australia CEO, Rebecca James said today that while Australia has a demonstrated ability to find solutions to pressing problems, more needs to be done to preserve and build on this reputation.

“Australia, through its strengths in the area of medical research, has demonstrated its ability to create local solutions that meet global challenges,” she said.

“In order to maintain and grow our position as a global player, the research sector and the wider industry require a new approach to collaboration, cooperation and support for innovation.”

Research Australia’s recommendations as to how Australia might achieve this are to be delivered during a session of the annual AusBiotech conference in Melbourne, held from October 19 to 22.

A number of luminaries from Australian academia, industry, research and VC will address the session, titled ‘Maximising Australia’s investment in medical research – new approaches to discovery and commercialisation’.

Attendees will also be the first to learn the results of recent polling by Research Australia designed to gauge public perceptions of medical research as well as how public support can contribute to growing the industry.