Covid brings Victorian vaccine and pharmaceutical innovation

By Peter Roberts The pieces are beginning to fall into place for the production of mRNA vaccines in Victoria, and possibly Queensland. Driven by the success of the first vaccine’s developed using the novel technology by Pfizer and Moderna, both states are backing local mRNA technology development, with Victoria in April committing $50 million. A…

One door closes, a vaccine future opens for GSK’s Melbourne pharma plant

By Peter Roberts The announcement that the Victorian government will back a new mRNA vaccine production facility with $50 million has offered new hope to the giant GSK pharmaceutical operation at Boronia in eastern Melbourne which has been slated for closure by the global group. With GSK re-directing its businesses towards biopharmaceuticals it has no…

Second local vaccine manufacturer push comes late

By Peter Roberts Pharmaceutical manufacturer IDT Australia is undertaking a feasibility study to assess the possibility of supplementing production of the Covid-19 vaccine in Australia. IDT will assess the possibility of using its sterile production facilities to supplement local supplies, following a Department of Health request. This comes as the federal government is being criticised…

Taking the ‘forever’ out of ‘forever chemicals’: we worked out how to destroy the PFAS in batteries

By Jens Blotevogel, CSIRO and Naomi Boxall, CSIRO Lithium-ion batteries are part of everyday life. They power small rechargeable devices such as mobile phones and laptops. They enable electric vehicles. And larger versions store excess renewable energy for later use, supporting the clean energy transition. Australia produces more than 3,000 tonnes of lithium-ion battery waste…

Engineering recruitment market commentary – January 2025

By David Armstrong The engineering recruitment market in Australia is experiencing some dynamic changes driven by advancements in technology, sustainability initiatives and economic shifts. Key sectors such as manufacturing and operations, building services and technology are witnessing increasing demand and present great opportunities for engineers with relevant skills. Employers are responding to rising living costs…

New electric bus manufacturing hub planned for Nowra

Nowra, NSW is poised to become the latest hub for cutting-edge public transport innovation, as Foton Mobility Distribution, an Australian-owned bus manufacturer, plans to establish a new 6,000 square meter electric bus manufacturing facility. This development, scheduled to begin construction in late 2025 pending council approval, aligns with the NSW Government’s commitment to revitalising local…