Government backs industry and research partners in regenerative therapy manufacturing

Australia’s push to lead in regenerative therapy manufacturing has taken a major leap forward with the federal government announcing $65 million over ten years for the Solutions for Manufacturing Advanced Regenerative Therapies (SMART) Cooperative Research Centre (CRC). The initiative, unveiled by Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic MP, is set to attract an additional $173 million from project partners, unlocking a total investment of $238 million.

The SMART CRC aims to accelerate the industrial-scale manufacturing of regenerative therapies for illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, arthritis and dementia. It is projected to deliver an estimated $4.5 billion in economic value and create 1,500 skilled jobs over the next decade.

“Bidding for a CRC is a demanding and intensely competitive process that requires a high degree of commitment and investment by industry and research partners,” said Jane O’Dwyer, CEO at Cooperative Research Australia (CRA).

The University of Queensland (UQ) will host the SMART CRC, building on its strong track record in early-phase biomedical innovation, including capabilities in mRNA, stem cell and protein manufacturing, and its stewardship of several national research facilities through NCRIS.

Interim Chief Executive Officer Professor Simon Cool, an international expert from UQ’s School of Chemical Engineering, said “There is a significant shortage of technical expertise in manufacturing, quality control, analytics, and process development, something that is standing in the way of transformative therapies benefitting Australians.

“The SMART CRC will directly target these gaps by harnessing the scientific and technological expertise of 63 partners and ensuring these next-generation treatments can be scaled up effectively, ready for use in the clinic.”

The CRC brings together a broad alliance of partners, including the Queensland and South Australian governments, regenerative therapy and biotechnology companies, healthcare providers, NGOs, universities and research institutes.

Interim Chair Dr Leanna Read said “By expanding Australia’s capacity to manufacture curative treatments for conditions like cancer, heart disease, arthritis, and other age-related ailments, the SMART CRC will relieve pressure on our hospital systems and contribute to the health and longevity of Australians.

“This centre will mature Australia’s sovereign manufacturing pipeline and anchor companies and their technology onshore, instead of relying on foreign supply chains.”

The CRC’s research program will span projects near commercialisation as well as the development of high-impact platform technologies, with matched contributions from industry alongside government and research funding.

UQ Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Terry AC emphasised the centre’s role in shaping the future of Australian manufacturing.

“SMART CRC’s integrated research streams will enhance adoption of technologies while ensuring Australia has the skilled workforce needed for the regenerative therapy manufacturing ecosystem,” she said.
“The centre will position Australia as a global leader in manufacturing technologies, and provide a lasting impact on industries, driving progress and improving the lives of all Australians.”

Reflecting on the broader role of CRCs in Australia’s innovation system, O’Dwyer noted, “Limitations on the [CRC] program mean there is significant potential capacity and commitment to industry-research collaboration across other critical sectors that we may not be able to harness. It is an Australian Government program that is remarkable for its impact and return on investment, particularly in stimulating business R&D (BERD).

“Growing BERD is a focus of the Strategic Examination of R&D, and priority across political parties. Growing investment in CRCs is a smart bet for Australia, and we know from the most recent impact assessment that they return $5.61 to GDP for every dollar of Australian Government funding.”

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