The NSW Government has confirmed construction of its $96 million RNA Research and Manufacturing Facility is progressing on schedule for completion in 2026, bolstering the state’s sovereign manufacturing capability in RNA-based therapeutics.
Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong inspected the site with Chair of RNA Australia Kate Pounder, noting the facility’s foundations, structure and utility connections are now complete – an important step toward meeting Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) certification requirements.
“This world-class facility is progressing on schedule and will be an important addition to NSW’s dynamic research and development sector,” Minister Chanthivong said. “This facility will change the way NSW faces its future health challenges.”
Once operational, the state-of-the-art site will be the only facility in Australia able to develop and manufacture a wide range of RNA therapeutics under one roof. Key laboratory equipment, including a $6 million VanRX robotic filling machine, has already been installed.
Minister Chanthivong said the project reflects the NSW Government’s commitment to strengthening its advanced manufacturing and research capacity.
“The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the effectiveness of RNA-based vaccines and therapies, but it also revealed the critical need to develop sovereign capability,” he said.
“This facility will enable NSW and Australian RNA researchers to design, test and manufacture RNA therapies locally.”
Chair of RNA Australia Kate Pounder said the project’s progress reflects strong collaboration between government, universities and industry. “The RNA Research and Manufacturing Facility is on-track to hit the ground running once complete,” Pounder said.
“It will enhance RNA R&D in NSW and increase investment opportunities for researchers both nationally and internationally.”
Located at Macquarie University’s Wallumattagal Campus, the project forms part of the NSW Government’s long-term strategy to grow its innovation and manufacturing ecosystem.
The government said it has committed a further $119 million over 10 years to support RNA research and development, alongside the $17.6 million NSW RNA Research and Training Network and the $6 million RNA Pipeline Grants Program.
