Victoria is cementing its position as a global hub for biotechnology and life sciences, with BioNTech establishing a state-of-the-art mRNA manufacturing facility at La Trobe University's Bundoora campus.
Victoria is now the only location globally where both mRNA leaders, Moderna and BioNTech, have chosen to base research, development, and manufacturing operations. This milestone reflects the state's growing reputation as a destination for biotech investment and collaboration.
The Victorian Government has invested $5 million to drive growth in clinical trials, enabling industry-sponsored trials and supporting the commercialisation of new therapies. Over the past decade, more than $1 billion has been invested in health and medical research, fostering breakthroughs and creating jobs across the sector.
As part of this momentum, BioNTech has launched a new Clinical Trial Oncology Platform in partnership with the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. This platform streamlines clinical trials through efficient data collection, planning, and patient access, accelerating the development of investigational therapies for hard-to-treat cancers.
The platform's first trial, focused on triple-negative breast cancer, is already underway, evaluating the safety and efficacy of immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy. The initiative involves a network of delivery partners including Austin Health, Alfred Health, and Monash Health, and engages leading clinical trial teams across Melbourne, regional Victoria, and Australia.
This strategic move, part of a partnership with mRNA Victoria, will support clinical-scale manufacturing and R&D of investigational mRNA-based medicines, creating new export opportunities for Victorian innovators.
