NSW strengthens biotech leadership with over $23 million of investment in RNA research, training, and commercialisation
Today NSW takes an important step forward in its healthcare and biotechnology capabilities with the launch of the $17.6 million NSW RNA Research and Training Network (NSW-RRTN), and the $6 million RNA Pipeline Grants Program.
RNA (ribonucleic acid) technology enables the development of programmable medicines—such as vaccines and therapeutics—that can precisely target diseases at the genetic level.
RNA technology came to global prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic, when it enabled the rapid development and deployment of vaccines to combat the unprecedented health crisis.
The NSW-RRTN, administered by UNSW Sydney in a collaboration between 12 NSW and ACT universities, is a coordinated initiative to support research, training and strategic programs in RNA science and technology.
The network will play a critical role in building the research and emerging talent pool necessary to maximise the impact and utilisation of the RNA Research and Manufacturing Facility, currently under construction at Macquarie University campus.
The network includes a collaborative research program spanning human and animal therapeutics, vaccines and biosecurity applications, a training program to develop a highly skilled RNA workforce, and a strategic fund to strengthen partnerships between universities and industry in key emerging areas.
The RNA Pipeline Grants Program is a competitive technology development and commercialisation grant program, supporting innovative RNA technologies with applications in health, biosecurity and agriculture.
It aims to build a pipeline of innovative RNA therapeutics, vaccines, and related technologies to be manufactured at the NSW RNA Facility.
Grants of between $200,000 and $3 million will be available, with applications closing on 16 September 2025.
Both initiatives are key components of the NSW Government’s $119 million RNA R&D Program, aimed at building NSW’s already strong biotech industry to include a world-class RNA ecosystem.
Other key elements of the RNA Ecosystem include the $96 million RNA Research and Manufacturing Facility due for completion next year, and RNA Australia, a company formed in 2023 to oversee operation of the Facility and act as a ‘front-door’ for RNA in NSW.
About RNA Australia
RNA Australia is a company formed in 2023 to oversee the operation of the RNA Facility based in Macquarie Park NSW, and also serves to act as a ‘front-door’ for RNA activity in NSW.
RNA Australia is a joint venture between the NSW Government and Australian National University, Macquarie University, UNSW Sydney, University of Sydney and University of Technology, Sydney.
Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong said:
“The COVID-19 pandemic showed the ability of RNA technology to rapidly develop life-saving therapies. It also highlighted the importance of NSW establishing sovereign capabilities in this critical area of research.
“With today’s launch of the NSW RNA Research and Training Network, our state takes an important step forward in establishing itself as a global centre of RNA research excellence.
“The new Network will ensure that NSW maintains its leadership in RNA research and biomanufacturing, translating research into impactful real-world solutions.
“By enabling NSW-based businesses and researchers to progress their early-stage innovations toward commercial readiness, the RPG Program aims to attract future investment and enhance local manufacturing.
“The RPG Program is part of a broader commitment by the NSW Government to advance our health, medical, agricultural and biosecurity research and development and manufacturing sectors.”
Chief Scientist & Engineer Professor Hugh Durrant-Whyte said:
“The NSW-RRTN will manage a Strategic Fund which focuses on merit-based, collaborative initiatives across the emerging RNA Sector.
“This will bring research and industry together, upskill researchers, and ensure successful commercial outcomes for startups undertaking innovative work in RNA therapeutics and technologies.
“The RPG Program is designed to build a robust pipeline of innovative RNA therapeutics, vaccines and related technologies in NSW that could be manufactured at the new RNA Research and Manufacturing Facility, helping bridge the gap between discovery and scalable production.”
RNA Australia Chair Kate Pounder said:
“With construction on the RNA Manufacturing Facility underway, this program is about making sure we can hit the ground running once it is complete.
“By collaborating with research organisations, such as through the NSW Vice-Chancellors' Committee, and engaging with the private sector, the NSW Government aims to strategically enhance the RNA value chain, facilitating market entry and expansion, and creating new skilled jobs.”
MEDIA: Dan Maloney | Minister Chanthivong | 0477 651 355