The Minister for Medical Research Ben Carroll turned his back on Victoria's world-leading medical researchers during today's Budget Estimates hearings.
The Association of Australian Medical Research Institutes (AAMRI) has warned that up to 10 Victorian research institutes could face closure by 2030 due to a lack of state funding.
The Minister acknowledged Victoria's Medical Research Institutes (MRIs) are regarded alongside global leaders in Boston and Oxford, yet refused to commit the funding needed to secure their future.
The Allan Labor Government provides the lowest level of financial support relative to research grant income for MRIs compared to other States and Territories.
Mr Carroll was repeatedly asked to commit increased funding to support the sector but refused to provide that guarantee.
Shadow Minister for Medical Research, Georgie Crozier, said: "There is increasing frustration and uncertainty for institutes and their staff under Labor.
"These MRIs support the development of life saving treatments and improve the health and wellbeing of patients," she said.
"The lack of funding in this year's budget places the MRI sector in a dire situation, putting thousands of jobs at risk.
"The Government's priorities are all wrong when they refuse to properly support this vital sector that saves lives and is an important part of the Victorian economy."
