AusBiotech welcomes the announcement of Australia's federal Shadow Ministry and looks forward to the continued opportunity for engagement with the newly appointed team, as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting a strong, innovative life sciences sector.
As Australia's peak life sciences body, AusBiotech recognises the important role of the Shadow Ministry in contributing to national policy discussions and shaping long-term thinking on key industries, including life sciences.
AusBiotech extends its congratulations to the Leader of the Opposition, the Hon Sussan Ley MP, and to the newly announced Shadow Ministers, including:
- Senator the Hon Anne Ruston, Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Senate, Shadow Minister for Health and Aged Care, Shadow Minister for Disability and the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Shadow Minister for Sport, Senator for South Australia
- The Hon Alex Hawke MP, Manager of Opposition Business in the House, Shadow Minister for Industry and Innovation, Member for Mitchell
- The Hon Kevin Hogan MP, Deputy Leader of the National Party, Deputy Manager of Opposition Business in the House, Shadow Minister for Trade, Investment and Tourism, Nationals Member for Page
- The Hon Melissa Price MP, Shadow Minister for Science, Shadow Minister for Cyber Security, Member for Durack
The announcement of the new Shadow Ministry provides an opportunity to continue bipartisan conversations that support Australia's growing life sciences ecosystem — spanning biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical technology, and related industries.
Comments from AusBiotech CEO Rebekah Cassidy:
"With more than 2,900 life sciences organisations across the country, employing one in every 60 Australians, the life sciences sector is a significant contributor to both national health and economic outcomes.
"We believe that strong collaboration across all sides of politics is key to supporting a sustainable, competitive life sciences sector. We welcome the opportunity to continue sharing insights from across the sector with the Shadow Ministry as part of our policy work."
AusBiotech's key areas for engagement include:
- A whole-of-government National Life Sciences Strategy to guide long-term policy, investment, and coordination.
- The establishment of an Australian Life Sciences Council, bringing together government and industry to shape a shared vision and address sector-wide challenges.
- Recognition of life sciences as a priority industry for national growth, innovation, and resilience.
- Greater investment in data and evidence-based policy to support smarter decision-making and drive measurable outcomes.
"Australia has world-class strengths in research, clinical trials, and advanced manufacturing," said Ms Cassidy. "With the right policy settings and partnerships, there is a significant opportunity to expand the sector's contribution both locally and globally."
AusBiotech looks forward to continued engagement with the Shadow Ministry, government, and broader stakeholders to support the long-term growth of Australia's life sciences industry.
