Austrade and AusBiotech have released two reports that map the scale, capability and international reach of Australia’s life sciences sector.
The reports, Life Sciences in Australia: Industry Capability Report and Life Sciences in Australia: A National Network Driving Innovation, provide a comprehensive overview of the country’s end-to-end ecosystem, from translational research and clinical trials through to development, manufacturing and commercialisation.
Australia’s life sciences sector has doubled in size since 2017 and now includes around 3,000 organisations, supporting one in every 65 jobs nationwide.
As global health needs shift, the sector is strengthening Australia’s sovereign capability, supporting economic prosperity, health security and the wellbeing of Australians, while emerging as a key contributor on the global stage. Australian innovators are addressing pressing health challenges worldwide and securing pharmaceutical patents at levels comparable to those of Israel and Switzerland.
Austrade General Manager for Trade Jason Verspuy said, “The compelling narrative developed by AusBiotech will enable Austrade’s global network to showcase Australia’s world-class life sciences capabilities and support diversification strategies. By highlighting our strengths in innovation and research, this narrative will open new market opportunities for Australian companies seeking to expand internationally.”
AusBiotech CEO Rebekah Cassidy said: “As the peak body for Australia’s life sciences sector, AusBiotech is proud to have co-authored these reports in partnership with Austrade. “They demonstrate the depth of capability and global competitiveness of Australia’s life sciences ecosystem, underpinned by deep expertise across the full innovation pipeline from discovery through to commercialisation and export. “Australia continues to deliver world-first innovations that transform human health. With ongoing collaboration between industry and government, national investment, and prioritisation, we are well-positioned to deliver many more.”
The reports position Australia as a trusted, globally connected life sciences partner and highlight a nationally coordinated ecosystem of research institutes, hospitals, precincts and hubs, contract research and manufacturing organisations, industry partners and service providers.
Key areas covered include research and clinical trial strengths, clinical development and regulatory advantages, advanced manufacturing and end-to-end commercialisation capability, investment and funding incentives, and opportunities for international partnerships and market access across the Asia-Pacific, Indo-Pacific, North American and European markets.