(13 May 2025): AusBiotech welcomes the Albanese Government's announcement of its new cabinet and federal ministry. As the national peak body for Australia's life sciences sector, AusBiotech congratulates all returning and newly appointed Ministers. We look forward to working in close partnership to strengthen Australia's innovation-driven economy and advance life sciences as a national priority.
Comments from AusBiotech CEO Rebekah Cassidy:
"We welcome the Prime Minister's announcement of his Ministry. This new ministry make-up presents an opportunity for renewed focus and bold leadership in unlocking the full potential of Australia's life sciences sector, which is a critical national asset for productivity, health security and improved health outcomes for all Australians."
"We congratulate the Hon Mark Butler MP on his reappointment as Minister for Health and Ageing. Minister Butler is an advocate for a whole-pipeline approach for our sector – from discovery to start-up, clinical trials, manufacturing, export, access and reimbursement. We welcome his ongoing support for Australia's life sciences sector and look forward to continuing our collaboration with him and his office to strengthen the nation's health innovation ecosystem, from bench to bedside.
"We welcome the appointment of Senator the Hon Tim Ayres as Minister for Industry and Innovation, and Minister for Science, and Dr Andrew Charlton MP, as Assistant Minister for Science, Technology and the Digital Economy.
"As Australian industry navigates a rapidly evolving global context, we welcome Minister Ayres' and Dr Chalton's depth of experience from across government and industry. We look forward to working closely with them to address immediate challenges and deliver meaningful outcomes for the life sciences sector, as well as advocate for its urgent prioritisation under the Future Made in Australia Act."
With more than 2,900 life sciences organisations across Australia, employing one in every 60 Australians, the sector is a significant contributor to national prosperity, global competitiveness, and the health of all Australians.
Welcoming new ministers in key portfolios
AusBiotech formally welcomes the appointment of Ministers across key portfolios, including:
- Senator the Hon Tim Ayres, appointed as Minister for Industry and Innovation, and Minister for Science.
- Dr Andrew Charlton MP, appointed as Cabinet Secretary and Assistant Minister for Science, Technology and the Digital Economy.
New appointments in the Health and Ageing Portfolio, Sam Rae MP as Minister for Aged Care and Seniors; and Rebecca White MP, as Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, Assistant Minister for Indigenous Health, and Assistant Minister for Women.
AusBiotech also looks forward to ongoing collaboration with:
- The Hon Mark Butler MP, reappointed as Minister for Health and Ageing, with the addition of Minister for Disability and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
- The Hon Emma McBride MP, reappointed as Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, and Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health.
- The Hon Don Farrell MP, reappointed as Minister for Trade and Tourism, whose role is crucial in supporting Australia's life sciences opportunities and industry growth within a globally dynamic context.
- The Hon Jason Clare MP, reappointed as Minister for Education.
AusBiotech extends its sincere thanks to the outgoing Minister for Industry and Science, the Hon Ed Husic MP, and his office, who led the establishment of the Strategic Examination of Research and Development and championed early-stage innovators through the Industry Growth Program, of which AusBiotech is an Industry Partner Organisation.
We also acknowledge the Hon Ged Kearney MP, former Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, and thank her for her service and support of the sector. We also congratulate her on her new role as Assistant Minister for Social Services and Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence.
A whole-of-government approach: A national priority
"In a rapidly evolving global landscape — marked by geopolitical shifts, supply chain challenges, an ageing population, and rising chronic disease burdens — prioritising Australia's world-leading biotechnology and medical technology industry has never been more urgent," said Cassidy.
"To unlock the full potential of Australia's life sciences industry, a whole-of-government approach is essential. This includes the establishment of a National Life Sciences Council to serve as a strategic partnership between industry and government, ensuring cohesive, long-term policy and investment."
AusBiotech looks forward to continued dialogue with the Albanese Government, as we work together to shape a strong and globally competitive future for Australian life sciences. Together, we can ensure the sector continues to deliver for Australia's health, economic future, and security.
