Backing More Local Manufacturing Jobs In Victoria

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The Allan Labor Government is taking a proactive approach to support the growth of the local manufacturing industry in Victoria. In an effort to ensure more life-saving cancer treatments are made within the state, the government has announced its investment in IDT Australia, a national pharmaceutical manufacturer, to expand its facilities in Boronia. This expansion will create 25 new highly-skilled jobs, boosting the local economy.

The new facility will house state-of-the-art laboratories that will be dedicated to the production of a new class of cancer treatment therapies called Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADCs). ADCs are targeted medicines that deliver chemotherapy agents directly to cancer cells. This facility will be the first and only one in Australia capable of locally producing accredited ADCs.

With ADCs expected to replace almost half of all chemotherapies in the next 15 years, this investment will allow for easier access to these life-saving treatments. The highly specific targeting ability of ADCs means that patients will receive more efficient and effective treatment, potentially changing the lives of countless individuals battling cancer.

This investment not only supports the development of this innovative medical technology, but it also contributes to the growth of the overall medtech sector in Victoria. The state is home to 650 medtech companies employing 6,000 people and generating $1.4 billion in economic value annually. The government is also committed to driving further advancements in the local medtech sector through its Made in Victoria – Industry R&D Infrastructure Fund and Manufacturing and Industry Sovereignty Fund.

Minister for Jobs and Industry Natalie Hutchins expressed her enthusiasm for the investment, stating, “We’re making sure we create more jobs and industry opportunities right here in Victoria.” This initiative aligns with the government’s vision for a thriving and innovative manufacturing sector that contributes to the state’s economic growth and supports the health and well-being of its citizens.

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