VicAAMRI applauds appointment of Victoria’s first Minister for Medical Research

Victoria’s medical research sector applauds the appointment of the state’s first dedicated Minister for Medical Research, the Hon. Jaala Pulford MP.

The appointment highlights the importance of the medical research sector to the economic strength of Victoria, and the health of all Victorians.

“Victoria is a world leader in medical research and innovation, including in Australia’s COVID-19 response, and having a dedicated minister will further reinforce the key role it plays in the state’s economy and healthcare system,” VicAAMRI Chair, and Burnet Institute Director and CEO, Professor Brendan Crabb AC said.

“We’re in a good position in Victoria, following decades of strong investment by the Victorian Government in health and medical research that has fostered our global reputation as a world leader. Having a dedicated minister for medical research will only add to this.”

“We look forward to working with Minister Pulford to realise the potential of the medical research sector as a driver of economic growth, bringing new jobs and investment to Victoria.”

Timely investments in COVID-19 research by the current government has also enabled Victoria’s medical research sector to contribute rapidly to the COVID-19 pandemic response here, and around the world.

“Victoria’s recovery requires more than a business-as-usual approach. Elevating medical research in this way is recognition that this sector is crucial to Victoria’s future,” Professor Crabb said.

“Research is the only avenue to solving huge health problems like COVID-19. But it also drives the formation of new, previously unthought-of industries. In doing so medical research is a major contributor to new skilled jobs, new revenue streams, and improved productivity.”

Minister Pulford was appointed Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy. She was also appointed Minister for Employment, and Minister for Small Business.