AusBiotech 2004: Macfarlane warns companies of coming struggle

Federal Industry Minister Ian Macfarlane has warned the Australian biotechnology industry that it still has a lot of work to do to win over the public.

Speaking to delegates at the AusBiotech 2004 conference in Brisbane on Tuesday night, Macfarlane said that more than $350 million had been pumped into the industry by taxpayers and the industry needed to "give it back."

"You need to start paying your way," he said.

Macfarlane also warned of difficult times ahead with 2002's stem cell legislation up for review in 2005, saying that the public understanding had not advanced in the intervening years. He noted warned that the integrity of the research and of the scientists involved in the research should not be undermined by a sideshow, as happened in 2002.

The industry would have to defend, promote and explain itself again, he said, and actively engage with the general public, who wanted information about stem cell research, but who might not have a good understanding of the science.

New Action Agenda for Medical Devices

Macfarlane also took the opportunity to announce the Federal government's support for a Medical Device Action Agenda, a joint initiative of the Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources and the Department of Health.

The Action Agenda will bring together all components of the industry including research and development, manufacturing, distribution and commercialisation to work together under a national framework.

"AusBiotech has been working closely with the Australian Government and the medical device industry in association with other key industry bodies, such as the Science Industry Australia (SIA), Medical Industry Association of Australia (MIAA) and Australian Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers (AEEMA), to ensure that device companies can realise their true potential," said Tony Coulepis, AusBiotech's executive director.