NSW-based company RNA Australia has released the designs for Australia’s first-of-its-kind $96 million RNA research and pilot manufacturing facility at Macquarie University.
RNA Australia has been established to develop and support a world-leading research, development and manufacturing industry in RNA technologies and therapeutics in NSW.
The facility, to be built at Macquarie University’s Wallumattagal Campus, will be the only site in Australia – and one of a handful in the world – where a wide range of RNA therapeutics and potential delivery technologies will be independently produced, providing NSW with scalable manufacturing opportunities that will bolster sovereign capability.
NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer and Chair of RNA Australia Professor Hugh Durrant-Whyte said that the new facility, with its laboratories and other support spaces, will accelerate NSW’s capacity to provide both human and animal patients with faster access to new and innovative RNA treatments.
“The facility will drive collaboration, investment and operations, leveraging the state’s existing expertise in its universities, the NSW RNA Production & Research Network, the UNSW RNA Institute and the Westmead Health and Innovation Precinct’s Viral Vector Manufacturing Facility.
“Importantly, the facility is looking to attract both domestic and international researchers and organisations, to develop and diversify R&D, commercialisation and manufacture of RNA therapeutics and technologies in NSW. This will result in improved biosecurity, increased sovereign manufacturing capacity and the creation of new companies and jobs,” Professor Durrant-Whyte said
The funding for the facility was provided by the NSW Government, which has also provided $119 million over 10 years for RNA R&D projects.
“We welcome a new facility to help drive collaboration and investment in this sector. NSW already has significant expertise across our universities, research institutions and priority precincts, this will be a chance to build on those assets,” Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong said.
The 4000m2 facility, which will be operated by leading global therapeutics company Myeloid, will enable the local research, development and production of a broad spectrum of RNA technologies to treat a range of human and animal diseases, disorders and infections.
“We are thrilled to continue to advance our partnership with NSW and the plans for this cutting-edge, first-of-its kind RNA manufacturing facility in Australia,” said Daniel Getts, PhD, CEO of Myeloid Therapeutics. “The Myeloid team is looking forward to developing our pipeline of RNA therapies here, securing our supply chain for clinical development and future commercialisation of our RNA-based therapeutics. We also are excited to continue collaborating with NSW to enhance the growth potential of other biotech companies in Australia.”
Artist impressions have now been unveiled, showcasing the new facility which will be located in close proximity to the Connect Macquarie Park Innovation District, home to medical and health-related organisations, and industrial and technology startups.
“RNA research-focused NSW universities look forward to working closely with government and industry on the realisation of this important facility. This collaboration will bring together the best scientists and researchers from universities, research institutes and hospitals to collaborate on RNA research and find novel therapeutic solutions," Macquarie Vice-Chancellor and RNA Australia board member Professor S. Bruce Dowton said.
Work to deliver the facility is progressing, with construction expected to start in 2024 following required approvals.
The facility is expected to be completed in late 2025.
More information on the RNA research and pilot manufacturing facility and the latest designs are available to view here: RNA Research and Pilot Manufacturing Facility - Health Infrastructure.
Link to artist impressions.
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Bruce Ritchie | RNA Australia | 0429 412 426