Victoria has charged a new body with building the state’s mRNA manufacturing capability, speeding up the future supply of coronavirus vaccines.

Delivering on the Victorian Government’s $50 million investment in securing local supply, the new body mRNA Victoria will lead the vaccine manufacturing. 

“Victoria is the national home for mRNA and we’re well placed to lead the development of Australia’s mRNA manufacturing,” Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford said. 

The body will be led by the inaugural CEO Michael Kapel and supported by a science advisory group of industry and technical experts.  

“I am delighted to appoint Michael Kapel as the chief executive of mRNA Victoria – he will play a lead role in helping us to fast-track this vital work,” Minister Pulford said. 

mRNA Victoria will leverage the state’s significant scientific expertise. It will also partner with universities, research institutes and industry across the globe to accelerate onshore mRNA manufacturing. 

Victoria’s Chief Scientist Amanda Caples will convene the advisory group. Additional appointments to the advisory group are expected in the coming weeks.  

The advisory group will provide advice on crucial steps to support the project to the Victorian Government. 

mRNA Victoria solidifies the Government’s commitment to driving innovation and research. The new body adds upon the establishment of the $2 billion Breakthrough Victoria Fund, the $60 million Victorian Startup Capital Fund and the $25 million Venture Debt Fund. 

“Our investment puts Victoria at the forefront of developing life-saving vaccines and therapeutic treatments for all Australians,” Treasurer Tim Pallas said. 

 Since mRNA has become a promising new weapon against cancer and other diseases, the development of mRNA manufacturing capability in Victoria can provide vaccine security, support local manufacturing and create a more robust defence against future pandemics. 

The Labor Government will continue to work collaboratively with the Federal Government given its recently announced investment in end-to-end mRNA manufacturing in Australia. 

Eliza Sayon

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Eliza is a content producer and editor at Public Spectrum. She is an experienced writer on topics related to the government and to the public, as well as stories that uplift and improve the community.

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