The Australian Government recently announced that it is investing AU$18.8 million to supercharge the discovery of better treatments for cancer, epilepsy, stroke, paralysis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, brain injuries, back pain and chronic middle ear disease.
Under round three of the Government’s AU$45 million BioMedTech Horizons (BMTH) program, 21 very promising projects will receive funding to help unlock some of the key health challenges facing the medical community today.
Successful applicants will use the funding to develop medical devices – including wearable devices – telehealth and telemedicine, and digitally-enabled personalised medicine.
The Government is supporting Australia’s world-class biomedical and medical technology sector for the benefit of all Australians while creating new jobs, growing expertise and building sustainable export markets.
Victoria-based Seer will receive AU$1 million to develop a real-time seizure forecasting system, through mobile and wearable monitoring, to empower people with epilepsy to regain control of their condition.
This project has great potential to save lives and improve the lives of people with epilepsy and their families.
Other projects include a 3D bioprinting system for regenerating skin and developing a smart brain biopsy needle for faster, safer neurosurgery.
The Australian Government provides funding for the BioMedTech Horizons program through its AU$20 billion Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF), while the industry is backing these projects by matching contributions to the tune of AU$21.3 million.
The MRFF is a key pillar of Australia’s long term national health plan to build the world’s best health system.
MTPConnect, a not-for-profit organisation driving innovation, productivity and competitiveness in the medical technologies, biotechnologies and pharmaceuticals sector, delivers BioMedTech Horizons on behalf of the Australian Government.
The table below details the projects slated to receive funding for their innovations and research.