The Morrison Government welcomes today's announcement that a COVID-19 vaccine candidate led by The University of Queensland will be developed and manufactured here in Australia.
Minister for Education Dan Tehan said this announcement demonstrates that Australia's universities continue to lead the world in research.
"This research by The University of Queensland could lead to the development of the COVID-19 vaccine right here in Australia by 2021," Mr Tehan said.
"It has the potential to be a game changer.
"This ground-breaking research by our universities puts Australia at the forefront of developing a promising COVID-19 vaccine, which would change the global recovery from the coronavirus pandemic overnight.
"I welcome the partnership of The University of Queensland, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) and CSL. This is a significant step for Australian researchers and highlights the importance of collaboration between universities, industry and government to drive world-class research.
"Our Government continues to fund universities to undertake world-leading research that delivers real-world benefits.
"In 2019-20, around $9.6 billion in Commonwealth funding is being provided for research and development across all portfolios, $12.4 billion will be invested over the next four years through the Education portfolio alone."
