Source: The Premier of Victoria

The Premier, Steve Bracks, officially opened a $20 million state-of-the-art Victorian Agribiosciences Centre heralding it as a major indication that Victoria was well on track to be one of the top five biotechnology locations in the world by 2010.

Mr Bracks joined Innovation Minister, John Brumby, at the launch and said the Victorian Agribiosciences Centre (VABC) at the La Trobe University R&D Park in Bundoora would cement the state's reputation as an international biotechnology leader.

The Victorian Government contributed $7.8 million to the VABC with La Trobe University funding $12 million.

"Biotechnology is emerging as one of the most important drivers of innovation and growth for 21st Century Victoria," Mr Bracks said.

"Food and fibre is an immensely important part of our economy with Victoria exporting $6.8 billion in 2004 alone.

"The yield, quality, pest and drought resistance of our agricultural industry will depend increasingly on our understanding of the genes behind these traits and our ability select for these traits.

"Research and development undertaken at the VABC will help improve the state's food production and manufacturing capabilities as well as create jobs and export markets in the future.

"The centre is a great example of how Government, university and private sector investment into Agrifood biotechnology and research and development facilities will result in real results for Victoria's food industries."

During today's opening Mr Brumby also announced details of a new Victorian-based agricultural biotechnology company, Gramina Pty Ltd.

Mr Brumby said Gramina was joint venture between Australian and New Zealand companies to develop and commercialise grass technologies developed at the VABC.

"Gramina clearly demonstrates the VABC's abilities in action and Victoria's ability to assist with State, national and overseas biotech interests," Mr Brumby said.

"This company - to be based at the VABC - will look at ways to improve on-farm productivity and is set to become a significant global player in the new temperate grass technologies over the next decade."

VABC Chairman, Prof German Spangenberg, said the Centre was a one stop shop for academic, commercial research and development groups, and included a 'Research Hotel' which provides office space and access to expertise for new and emerging biotechnology companies.

"The collective know how of the VABC will help improve sustainable use of environmental resources for agriculture that in turn benefits both Victorian and overseas communities," Prof Spangenberg said.

The VABC consortium comprises La Trobe University, Bundoora, Department of Primary Industries Victoria (DPIV), RMIT University, Monash University, Florigene Ltd – a division of Suntory, Molecular Plant Breeding CRC and GE HealthCare Biosciences.