AusBiotech has released its 2024–25 Annual Report, marking what Chair Dr James Campbell described as a “transformational and defining year” for the organisation and Australia’s broader life sciences community.
The report captures a period of renewal, growth, and strengthened national advocacy, reflecting the sector’s expanding role in shaping Australia’s health, economic resilience, and innovation landscape.
“The role of national peak bodies has never been more important, as critical sectors like ours navigate global headwinds and shifting geopolitical dynamics,” Dr Campbell said. “Across the year, AusBiotech invested in new capabilities, strengthened advocacy and communications functions, and enhanced member engagement to ensure we remain a trusted advocate, connector, and enabler for our thriving ecosystem.”
AusBiotech Chief Executive Officer Rebekah Cassidy said the report comes at a pivotal time, with members driving medical breakthroughs that are improving lives while strengthening Australia’s health security and sovereign capability.
“As our sector matures and the global environment continues to shift, our role as the national peak body is clear — to advocate, convene, and amplify the collective voice of more than 3,000 members shaping the future of Australian life sciences,” Ms Cassidy said.
The report highlights the scale and vitality of Australia’s life sciences ecosystem, comprising over 2,900 organisations and employing one in every 60 Australian workers.
Among the highlights from 2024–25 were a revitalised policy and advocacy agenda, as well as strengthened engagement with governments, regulators, and international partners. Major flagship events that brought together over 7,000 participants, including record attendances at the AusBiotech and AusMedtech conferences, and the inaugural Women in Life Sciences Leadership Summit. Enhanced global collaboration, including progress on the proposed Australia–UK BioBridge, and deeper partnerships through the International Council of Biotechnology Organisations. The organisation also highlighted continued membership and event growth, backed by sustainable financial performance and strategic investment in organisational capabilities.
Ms Cassidy said the organisation is now firmly focused on the next phase of growth. “Over the past year, we have transformed every part of our organisation. With continued investment, a renewed strategic policy agenda, and strong cross-sector partnerships, AusBiotech is well positioned to help realise the sector’s extraordinary potential and cement its role in shaping a healthier, more innovative, and prosperous Australia.”
AusBiotech continues to call for greater recognition of the life sciences sector as a national priority, emphasising its critical contribution to health, innovation, and the economy.