- Appointment of inaugural Independent Chair of Queen Elizabeth II Precinct Leadership Group
- $1.9 million investment to advance biomedical research and commercialisation in WA
- Complements ongoing investments by the Cook Government in WA's health and medical innovation ecosystem
The Cook Government has announced the appointment of Ms Paula Rogers as the inaugural Independent Chair of the Queen Elizabeth II Precinct Leadership Group (PLG), a significant milestone in the advancement of Western Australia's Health and Biomedical Precinct.
Backed by a $1.9 million investment by the WA Government, the aim is for the Precinct to become an independently governed, self-sustaining entity by 2027.
Ms Rogers is well known in the WA business community, having led the Committee for Perth as CEO for a number of years. She has held senior leadership roles including as State Director at Committee for Economic Development of Australia.
The world-class Precinct based at Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre (QEII) will enhance collaboration between universities, health service providers and industry, resulting in significant improvements to research translation and innovation in WA, and is set to become one of the largest in the southern hemisphere.
The recently established Leadership Group brings together leaders from key partner organisations to guide the development of the Precinct's long-term vision and governance structure. The appointment of an Independent Chair ensures expert facilitation and governance in place during this critical establishment phase.
The Cook Government is demonstrating its commitment to advancing biomedical success and innovation in Western Australia. Murray Street Innovation Hub, which is currently under construction, will provide critical support for early-stage innovation projects, assisting them through the proof-of-concept phase.
In addition, the Floreat Biomedical Manufacturing Hub is facilitating the manufacturing and commercial launch of biomedical products in WA. These initiatives are underpinned by a significant $50 million investment, further strengthening the State's position as a leader in biomedical research and commercialisation.
As stated by Medical Research Minister Stephen Dawson:
"The Precinct Leadership Group will play a pivotal role in shaping Western Australia's future as a national hub for health and medical research translation and innovation.
"The inaugural appointment of an Independent Chair reflects the Government's commitment to transparency and collaboration across health, research, and innovation sectors.
"Paula Rogers' extensive experience in stakeholder engagement and strategic leadership makes her an outstanding choice to lead this group.
"With this latest announcement, we are another step closer to the Cook Government's vision of creating a world-class biomedical industry and research precinct that will benefit Western Australians and patients across the world."
