‘Safeguard against COVID’: $550m infectious disease research hub opening in Melbourne
The country’s largest infectious disease research hub, which will open at Melbourne Uni, is being dubbed a “game-changer” in the fight against COVID-19 and future pandemics. Here’s why.
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Melbourne University will open Australia’s largest infectious diseases facility, bringing Victoria at the forefront of pandemic preparedness.
The $550 million hub will improve how Victoria manages COVID-19 and increase the country’s ability to respond on a national and global scale to all infectious diseases.
University of Melbourne Vice-Chancellor Duncan Maskell said the centre would ensure Australia is be more prepared for future infection threats.
“This will build on Australia’s existing capabilities by bringing together an exceptional network of leading researchers, public health experts and clinicians, in a purpose-built facility designed to prepare for and combat infectious diseases … ensuring enhanced responses to existing pandemics and greater preparedness for future infectious disease threats,” he said.
The joint project between the University of Melbourne, Burnet Institute and Doherty Institute will see a the new hub for infectious diseases and global health established in the world-leading Melbourne Biomedical Precinct in Parkville.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews announced $150 million in funding for the complex and a $5 million grant to assist with planning for the facility.
The comprehensive hub will involve experts from the medical research and public health sector.
Burnet Institute Director and CEO Professor Brendan Crabb said it was a game changer in the fight against threats like coronavirus.
“This initiative is a game changer for Australia’s capacity to respond to global health challenges at home and in our region,” he said.
“It represents a safeguard against COVID-like threats and a much-needed economic driver.”
The new research hub will look at all aspects of infectious diseases including increased research, clinical trials and public health expansion.
Partners include the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute and the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute.
The existing Doherty Institute will be expanded and the Burnet Institute will move to the new facility in Parkville.
Philanthropic support is being sought and discussions have been opened with the federal government.
The hub will also work closely with the CSIRO Australian Centre for Disease Prevention in Geelong, Monash University and Deakin University.
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