July 2017
Restoration on skilled visas welcomed across medical technology, biotechnology and pharmaceutical sector.
The restoration of key occupations for the medical technology, research and pharmaceutical sector to the skilled migration visa list has been welcomed by six representative organisations. Having participated in submissions and consultations, the combined peak body group is pleased the Government has addressed concerns that were widely shared across the medical technologies, biotechnologies and pharmaceuticals industry sector and the health and medical research sector.
The revised list of occupations is an important step for which there is significant acknowledgment and relief that the attraction of highly-skilled individuals will not be thwarted and demonstrates continued support for Australia’s competitive advantage in life sciences innovation.
The revised list has provided assurance that important recruitment of outstanding talent can continue consistent with the Australian National Innovation and Science Agenda. Australia will be able to continue to thrive as a home for some of the world’s most talented scientists and medical researchers, improve its position as a centre for high-quality R&D in medical science and receive the associated spill over benefits.
Signatory organisations include representatives of the entire life sciences research and commercialisation ‘ecosystem’, including biotechnology, pharmaceutical and medical technology companies, ranging from start-ups to mature multinationals, research institutes, universities and specialist service professionals.
We understand the need for the Government to ensure that the visa program benefits Australia and the scheme must be viewed as a tool to fill the skills gaps that exists in Australia. In this instance, the gaps are in research and industries that create highly-attractive highly skilled jobs, attract clinical research, upskills the local talent pool and grows the local economy.
About BioMelbourne Network
The BioMelbourne Network is a membership-based, industry forum representing over 185 organisations and business leaders in biotechnology, medical technology and health innovation industries in the State of Victoria. Our role is to foster links between companies, research organisations, financial markets and government to create an environment for that enables conversation, collaboration and prosperity.
About AusBiotech
AusBiotech is Australia’s biotechnology organisation, working on behalf of members for 30 years to provide representation and services to promote the development, growth and prosperity of Australian biotechnology. AusBiotech is a well-connected network of over 3,000 members in the life sciences, including therapeutics, medical technology (devices and diagnostics), food technology and agricultural, environmental and industrial sectors.
About Research Australia
Research Australia is the national peak body representing the entire health and medical research pipeline advocating for health and medical research in Australia. Independent of government, Research Australia’s activities are funded by its partners, donors and supporters from leading research organisations, academic institutions, philanthropy, community special interest groups, peak industry bodies, biotechnology, medical technology and pharmaceutical companies, small businesses and corporate Australia.
About Medicines Australia
Medicines Australia represents the discovery-driven pharmaceutical industry in Australia. Our member companies invent, manufacture and supply innovative medicines and vaccines to the Australian community, which keeps Australians out of hospitals, prevents disease and play a pivotal role in ensuring a productive and healthy community. Medicines Australia’s mission is to drive the creation and development of a predictable environment for the continued, sustainable growth of the innovative and research-based prescription medicines industry.
About Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA)
The Medical Technology Association of Australia represents manufacturers, exporters and suppliers of medical technology products used in the diagnosis, prevention, treatment and management of disease and disability.
About Association of Australian Medical Research Institutes (AAMRI)
AAMRI is the peak body for medical research institutes (MRIs) across Australia. Our member organisations work on a broad spectrum of human health issues such as preventive health, chronic disease, mental health, immunology and Indigenous health. Their research ranges from fundamental biomedical discovery through to clinical research and the translation of research findings from bench to bedside.
