NSW Government opens RNA Research and Manufacturing Facility

The NSW Government has opened a new $96 million RNA research and manufacturing facility within the Macquarie University Innovation Precinct.

The government said construction of the RNA facility has been completed on time, “marking a new era in the state’s ability to translate, develop and manufacture life-saving RNA therapeutics”.

The COVID‑19 pandemic underscored the urgent need for Australia to have local capability to rapidly develop and manufacture vaccines and therapeutics. With global supply chains stretched and international supply limited, the government says the new RNA Facility ensures NSW is better prepared for future pandemics by enabling the fast production of RNA vaccines and treatments when they are needed most.

The RNA Facility includes advanced laboratories and support spaces that will make it the only site in Australia capable of producing a wide range of new and existing RNA therapeutics under one roof. Industry partner and operator Aurora Biosynthetics will now engage with researchers and clients who aim to advance their therapeutic innovations from the laboratory towards clinical trials.

The NSW Government also plans to provide an additional $119 million over 10 years in support of RNA R&D projects at the RNA Facility, and in July last year, launched the $17.6 million NSW RNA Research and Training Network along with the $6 million RNA Pipeline Grants Program.

“This a major step forward for the future of health care in NSW and an opportunity for us to develop and deploy new advanced health therapies,” said Minister for Health and Regional Health Ryan Park. “This facility is an exciting new link between NSW’s world-class RNA researchers, our outstanding clinical trials capability and the health system.”

Image: Artist’s impression of the RNA Research and Manufacturing Facility. Credit: NSW Government