Innovation and stem cell excellence power - Australia's drug potential

Australia's excellence in medical research, the transparent regulatory regime and its track record in clinical trials are driving a maturing of the country's biomedicine-dominated biotech industry. At the same time, Australia is cementing its position as an international leader in stem cell research. In terms of preclinical drug leads, Australian institutes and universities continue to generate a stream of discoveries with commercial potential. Recent examples include the Gardasil cervical cancer vaccine, now licensed for sale in 80 countries; and the Nobel Prize-winning discovery of the bacteria that causes stomach ulcers. In stem cell science, Australia's place as a world leader can be attributed to its culture of innovation and discovery, clear legislative framework and long history in both adult and embryonic stem cell research.