Geelong is set to host human clinical trials for ground-breaking medical research and to speed up the development of new treatments, backed by support from the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford today welcomed confirmation that Australia’s largest clinical trials provider, Nucleus Network, has opened its first satellite clinic and is recruiting trial participants in Geelong.
Established in 2004 by Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute with an $8 million Victorian Government investment, Nucleus Network has grown to become a highly successful company with global impact.
The Geelong world-class clinical trial facility will give regional residents the opportunity to attend appointments locally to determine their eligibility for a study — as well as allowing convenient post-study follow-up visits.
The clinic is conducting trials including a treatment for central nervous system diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis and CNS lymphoma and a potential new treatment for non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis.
Nucleus Network also has facilities in Melbourne, Brisbane and Minneapolis in the United States, and runs clinical trials for some of the biggest pharmaceutical companies in the world including US-based biotechnology company, Novavax, for which it ran COVID-19 vaccine trials in Australia earlier this year.
Clinical trials held in Victoria contribute more than $300 million annually to the state’s economy.
In the past year, the Government has invested more than $590 million in medical research – including up to $400 million for a new Australian Institute of Infectious Disease to lead the fight against future pandemics.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Innovation, Medical Research and the Digital Economy Jaala Pulford
“New treatments would not be possible without clinical trials and Nucleus Network is one of our best international success stories – accelerating the translation of research into health outcomes that change and save lives.”
“Clinical trials are critically important for patients and the opening of this new facility in Geelong is boosting Victoria’s reputation as a sought-after location for medical research.”
Quote attributable to Member for Geelong Christine Couzens
“I’m proud that the development of treatments, that will help so many people, will be occurring at this new clinic right here in Geelong.”
Quote attributable to Nucleus Network Chief Operating Officer Charlotte Hall
“Through our new satellite clinic, we will be able to reach even more people and cement our position as a key partner to some of the industry’s largest and most respected clients in the sector, which is great for Australia and Victoria.”
Reviewed 17 November 2021