VicAAMRI welcomes investment in new Australian infectious diseases and global health institute

The Victorian Chapter of the Association of Australian Medical Research Institutes (VicAAMRI) applauds Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews’ announcement today of a $155 million investment to establish the new Australian Institutes for Infectious Diseases and Global Health.

This significant investment will build on Victoria’s place as a world leader in medical research, while creating new high-skilled jobs and economic opportunities for Victorians.

“The Victorian Government has a long history of investing in medical research, and that support is a key reason that our medical research sector is the world leader that it is today,” said Professor Brendan Crabb AC, Chair of VicAAMRI and Director and CEO of the Burnet Institute.

Victoria’s medical research sector is well placed to grow into a global powerhouse, delivering new, high-skilled jobs and attracting significant international investment.

“Victoria’s, and the nation’s, stunningly successful response to the coronavirus pandemic would not have been possible without scientists working side-by-side with governments and communities.

“This new investment will help make sure Australia is ready to respond effectively to future pandemics, while also delivering new jobs and economic benefits in Victoria,” said Professor Crabb.

By building on the state’s existing strengths this investment will help to catalyse further growth across the medical research sector and associated industries.

The Australian Institutes for Infectious Diseases and Global Health will be a hub of collaboration between clinicians, academic researchers, industry partners and government health services.

“This will drive development of new and stronger partnerships across Melbourne, Victoria, Australia and our region, bringing together hospitals, medical research institutes, government research agencies, universities and global biotechnology companies like CSL,” said Professor Crabb.

VicAAMRI has worked closely with the Victorian Government to emphasise the medical research sector’s significant potential to help accelerate the state’s economic recovery.

“The establishment of this new institute shows that when we invest in the resources, facilities and operational excellence that our researchers need, we can achieve amazing things together,” said Professor Crabb.

 

-ENDS

Media Contact: Andrew Hastings, 03 9345 2511, andrew.hastings@aamri.org.au