La Trobe University unveils multimillion-dollar digital and bio innovation hubs
A series of life-changing products including antiviral medication will be manufactured at new multimillion-dollar innovation hubs in Melbourne’s north.
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A $23m science and technology megacentre will be built in Melbourne’s north.
The centre, called the Digital and Bio Innovation Hubs, will be housed at La Trobe University in Bundoora.
It will be a one-stop-shop for the development of innovative products.
They include antiviral medication, solutions for water treatment and farm technology.
Construction will begin in May and create 170 jobs.
Training and Skills and Higher Education Minister Gayle Tierney told the Herald Sun: “Projects like the Digital and Bio Innovation Hubs are all about giving Victorians the very best opportunities – whether that be in training, research or jobs – while also strengthening the state’s economy.”
University students, start-ups and businesses will all be able to use the centre for research and development.
It will accommodate up to 10 companies and 40 research and business staff.
They will have access to purpose-built wetlabs, temperature-controlled storage facilities, laboratories, high-end digital equipment and offices.
The state government has contributed $17 million to the project, with La Trobe University paying $6 million.
La Trobe University Vice Chancellor Professor John Dewar said the project was a huge boost.
It already supports pharmaceutical company AdAlta, which has developed treatments for diseases such as lung fibrosis which are now being prepared for clinical trials.
“We are positioning La Trobe University as a leader of exciting bio and tech innovations that are relevant to a variety of industries around the world,’’ Professor Dewar said.
Bundoora state Labor MP Colin Brooks said: “This project will position Bundoora as a key area for innovation and jobs in bio and digital technologies.”
The centre, to be located at La Trobe’s refurbished Thomas Chery Building, is being funded through the $350 million Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund.
The fund supports universities with capital works projects, research infrastructure projects and applied research focused on boosting Victoria’s productivity and economy as the state recovers from the coronavirus pandemic.
Construction is expected to be finished in 2022.
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Originally published as La Trobe University unveils multimillion-dollar digital and bio innovation hubs
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