Biotechnology Industry

Overview

Victoria is Australia's science and biotechnology centre. Almost half of all Australian biotechnology activity, and more than one quarter of all other scientific activity, takes place in Victoria.

Victoria is home to 141 biotechnology companies, 15 major medical research institutes, seven teaching hospitals and nine universities. It is the leading location for clinical trials in Australia, with a world-class research sector, a culture of innovation, and excellent infrastructure.

The biotechnology industry is growing rapidly - the life sciences sector alone recorded growth of 20 percent in the year to March 2007.

Victoria's science and biotechnology industry includes:

  • agricultural, veterinary and environmental science
  • engineering and technology
  • medical and health science
  • biological science
  • earth science
  • information, computing and communications science
  • chemical science
  • physical science
  • mathematical science
  • human therapeutics
  • agricultural biotechnology
  • diagnostics
  • chemical, environment and other biotechnology services
  • food and/or beverage biotechnology
  • bioinformatics.

Industry size

In 2005-06, Victorian life sciences companies generated sales of around A$5.7 billion. There are approximately 5000 people employed in research and development in Victoria, and a further 3000 in the biotechnology sector.

Occupations

Victoria is currently offering visa sponsorship to applicants with the following science and biotechnology qualifications:

Industry contacts

Professional bodies and industry associations are a good source of information about the science and biotechnology industry in Victoria.

The following body represents the whole industry:

Tip

Not sure what your occupation is? Visit the Department of Immigration and Citizenship's Australian Skills Recognition Information portal.

Further information

Find out about Victorian Government visa sponsorship.




Last updated: 02 September 2009

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State Government of Victoria