AusBiotech has welcomed the new shadow ministry, saying it looks forward to engaging the newly appointed team.
The association said that it recognises the critical role of the shadow ministry in contributing to national policy discussions and shaping long-term thinking on key industries, including life sciences.
The shadow minister includes Senator Anne Ruston, reappointed to the health portfolio with the addition of disability. Alex Hawke MP has been appointed to the shadow industry and innovation portfolio, while Kevin Hogan MP, the Deputy Leader of the National Party, is in the trade portfolio, and Melissa Price MP is in science.
AusBiotech CEO Rebekah Cassidy said, “With more than 2,900 life sciences organisations across the country, employing one in every 60 Australians, the life sciences sector is a significant contributor to both national health and economic outcomes.
“We believe that strong collaboration across all sides of politics is key to supporting a sustainable, competitive life sciences sector. We welcome the opportunity to continue sharing insights from across the sector with the Shadow Ministry as part of our policy work.”
AusBiotech's key focus areas include the development of a whole-of-government National Life Sciences Strategy and the establishment of an Australian Life Sciences Council, which will bring together government and industry to shape a shared vision and address sector-wide challenges. It also supports the recognition of the life sciences as a priority industry for national growth, innovation, and resilience, as well as greater investment in data-and evidence-based policy to support smarter decision-making and drive measurable outcomes.
“Australia has world-class strengths in research, clinical trials, and advanced manufacturing,” said Ms Cassidy. “With the right policy settings and partnerships, there is a significant opportunity to expand the sector’s contribution both locally and globally."