Melbourne has secured five international life science conferences in 2019 and 2020.
The AusMedtech Conference in 2019, AusBiotech National Conferences in 2019 and 2020, and Biotech Invest Conferences in 2019 and 2020 will attract thousands of delegates from across Australia and around the globe.
“Victoria is at the epicentre of the Australian medtech and pharmaceuticals sector, and is the natural place for these world class conferences to call home,” said the minister for innovation and the digital economy Philip Dalidakis.
“We’re thrilled to have secured five more major life science conferences that will give us the chance to showcase Victorian medtech and pharmaceutical capabilities to the world.”
Mr Dalidakis said the life sciences represents a key growth market for Victorian businesses and employment.
In 2016, Victoria’s medtech and pharmaceutical exports grew by 40 percent to $1.7 billion. The US and Europe are the state's key markets with Chinese demand continuing to grow.
Victoria is well placed to capitalise on this opportunity with strong capabilities in advanced manufacturing, clinical trials, research and development, education, and tech innovation, as well as attractive incentives compared to the US, said Mr Dalidakis.
"We are pleased that the Victorian Government is supporting these major life sciences events to be held in Melbourne – one of the world’s great biotech hubs,” said AusBiotech CEO Glenn Cross.