AusBiotech has announced that Queensland will host its international conference for 2026 and 2027, and Dr Marthe D’Ombrain has been re-elected to its board.
Queensland has been confirmed as the Host State Partner for the AusBiotech International Conference and AusBioInvest in 2026 and 2027, a significant win for the state as it positions itself as a global life sciences hub.
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie described the decision as strategically significant. “Biomedical is a priority industry for the Crisafulli Government — and hosting the AusBiotech International Conference and AusBioInvest will help us showcase our strengths, attract global investment, strengthen our international partnerships, and grow our sovereign capability,” he said.
The events, to be held in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast, are expected to attract delegates from more than 20 countries, bringing together leaders from industry, academia, investment and government. The state government is positioning this as part of a broader strategy to attract biomedical investment, supported by initiatives such as the new $180.6 million Sovereign Industry Development Fund.
Queensland’s health innovation ecosystem is already thriving, according to Andrew Powell MP, Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation. “These conferences elevate Australia’s reputation as a leader in research and commercialisation while also delivering strong economic outcomes for our state and its tourism sector,” Powell said.
AusBiotech CEO Rebekah Cassidy said the decision to bring the conferences north underscored Queensland’s growing status as a life sciences leader. “Taking the AusBiotech Invest and AusBiotech International Conferences to Queensland for two consecutive years highlights Queensland’s focus on becoming a hub for life sciences innovation,” she said.
AusBiotech also confirmed the re-election of Dr Marthe D’Ombrain, Executive Director and Head of Global Research Innovation at CSL, to its Board of Directors.
Dr D’Ombrain brings more than two decades of experience across research, commercialisation and innovation, and has played a key role in expanding CSL’s global R&D portfolio. She championed the creation of the CSL Research Acceleration Initiative and helped establish Jumar Bioincubator, a Melbourne-based incubator supporting early-stage biotech ventures.
AusBiotech Chair Dr James Campbell said her re-election strengthens the Board’s leadership profile. “Her deep experience in global research innovation and proven leadership in advancing translational science will continue to strengthen our mission to champion the Australian life sciences sector,” Dr Campbell said.
Dr D’Ombrain expressed gratitude for the renewed mandate from members. “It has been a privilege to serve on the Board for the past three years. I am excited about the opportunities to further grow and advance Australia’s national life sciences agenda and to strengthen our collective contribution to positively impact the lives of patients both in Australia and around the globe,” she said.