Labor is backing Victoria to become a global leader in mRNA vaccine manufacturing.
Minister Dimopoulos today visited BioNTech’s Bundoora facility where the installation of BioNTainer units will support up to 1,200 jobs in the wider industry over the next 10 years.
Victoria is home to the two of the world’s leading mRNA vaccine makers, Moderna and BioNTech and is now one of only two places in the world with BioNTainer manufacturing units, based on a protype in Germany.
The units are modular, portable laboratories that can make new vaccines and treatments.
Researchers and biotech companies will be able to work with BioNTech to develop investigational new medicines – from cancer treatments to vaccines for new diseases.
The BioNTainer units have been named Wirrarap, meaning medicine man, faith and spirit healer, and Boordup, meaning a source or place of comfort, in Woi wurrung language.
The facility is located within La Trobe University’s $5 billion University City precinct at Bundoora and is a cornerstone of BioNTech’s partnership with the Allan Labor Government.
As stated by Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs Steve Dimopoulos
“Victoria is making the vaccines of the future supporting thousands of jobs right here in Melbourne.”
“Every dollar invested in medical research attracts business and drives economic growth.”
As stated by Deputy Premier and Minister for Medical Research Ben Carroll
“These facilities don’t just support research – they accelerate the journey from scientific discovery to life-saving treatments.”
As stated by BioNTech Chief Operating Officer Dr Sierk Poetting
“Our BioNTainer units in Melbourne are aimed at supporting the local mRNA ecosystem by providing small-scale manufacturing capabilities focused on research and development.”
“They are intended to become a resource for local partners, helping to expand innovation, accelerate development, and strengthen regional capabilities.”
As stated by La Trobe University Vice-Chancellor Professor Theo Farrell
“The installation of the BioNTainer units marks another important step in the development of a world-class innovation ecosystem at La Trobe’s University City.”
“As a hub for next-generation health and biotechnology, our University City precinct brings together research and industry partners like BioNTech and government to create new opportunities for collaboration, discovery and impact, helping build the future of medical innovation in Victoria.”
