Viral Vector Manufacturing Facility and Cell Therapies have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to explore strategic collaboration opportunities aimed at strengthening the onshore development and manufacture of Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs).
ATMPs are innovative medicines based on genes, cells, or tissue engineering. They are often complex, based on science involving living cells, and require specialised manufacturing capabilities and a highly skilled workforce.
Viral Vector Manufacturing Facility (VVMF) is Australia’s only Contract Development Manufacturing Organisation (CDMO) dedicated to providing services in the research, design, development, and manufacture of viral vectors for advanced therapeutic applications.
Cell Therapies is a contract development and manufacturing organisation (CDMO) dedicated exclusively to cell and gene therapies.
The companies said the MoU reflects their shared commitment to expanding access to ATMPs for both Australian and International patients through clinical trials. The MoU provides joint efforts to advance capabilities across Australia’s cell and gene therapy (CGT) sector, bolstering support for the growing global CGT market and driving innovation and manufacturing capacity for the Asia Pacific (APAC) region.
VVMF CEO Stephen Thompson said, “VVMF is proud to collaborate with Cell Therapies, Australia’s leading capability in cell therapy manufacturing. Our complementary strengths and services reinforce Australia’s unique biomanufacturing ecosystem and showcase why Australia is a premier destination for the development and production of cell and gene therapies. Together we are committed to improving outcomes for patients, customers, and partners across Australia, the APAC region, and globally.”
Bev Menner, Cell Therapies CEO, added, “This collaboration advances efforts to secure a fully integrated onshore value chain for advanced therapies in Australia—enhancing patient access to cutting-edge treatments, reinforcing clinical trial and translational capabilities, and enabling export-readiness across the APAC region. Strategic investment in sovereign manufacturing capacity for CGTs and critical inputs positions Australia to compete in the global advanced therapies market.”