UQ will host a $238 million industry-led research centre of accelerated industrial-scale manufacturing of regenerative therapies for illnesses including cancer, arthritis, heart disease, and dementia.
“By expanding Australia’s capacity to manufacture curative treatments for conditions like cancer, heart disease, arthritis, and other age-related ailments, the SMART CRC will relieve pressure on our hospital systems and contribute to the health and longevity of Australians,” said interim chair Dr Leanna Read.
The Federal government has announced the Solutions for Manufacturing Advanced Regenerative Therapies (SMART) Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) to bolster Australia’s sovereign manufacturing capabilities.
“SMART CRC’s integrated research streams will enhance adoption of technologies while ensuring Australia has the skilled workforce needed for the regenerative therapy manufacturing ecosystem,” said UQ vice-chancellor professor Deborah Terry Ac.
The SMART CRC partners include Queensland and South Australian governments, regenerative therapy and biotechnology companies, healthcare providers, non-government organisations, universities, and research institutes.
“There is a significant shortage of technical expertise in manufacturing, quality control, analytics, and process development, something that is standing in the way of transformative therapies benefiting Australians,” said interim chief executive officer, professor Simon Cool.
The SMART CRC will help Australian companies bring a 10-year-old pipeline of life-changing therapies to market, creating an estimated $4.5 billion in economic value and 1500 skilled jobs.
“This centre will mature Australia’s sovereign manufacturing pipeline and anchor companies and their technology onshore, instead of relying on foreign supply chains,” said Read.
“We look forward to collaborating with the many partners to mature Australia’s sovereign manufacturing pipeline,” said Terry AC.