New council to advise on Australian biotech

Minister Ian Macfarlane, chair of the commonwealth biotechnology ministerial council, has announced the establishment of the Australian Biotechnology Advisory Council to advise the government on priority issues in biotechnology.

The council will provide advice on issues including research and development, international links, commercialisation, public interest and ethics.

"I look forward to working closely with the council, which will be headed by Professor John Hearn, vice chancellor (research) at the Australian National University," Mr Macfarlane said. "The government recognises the need for a broad mix of expertise in making decisions to ensure Australia's emerging industries are competitive in world markets.

"The council will be asked to consider making recommendations on new directions for biotechnology, working towards greater collaboration between all Australian governments and industry," he said.

The advisory council comprises nine prominent biotechnologists selected on the basis of their knowledge, experience, and expertise and standing in the biotechnology community. "The council members possess impressive and wide-ranging experience across biotechnology innovation, research and development, commercialisation of intellectual property, growing businesses, public sector research, education and scientific policy issues," Mr Macfarlane said.