The Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences welcomes the Federal Government’s announcement of the establishment of a national body to provide leadership, coordination and expertise so that all Australians can benefit from cutting-edge genomic research and technologies.

As the nation’s expert health and medical sciences body, the Academy has long called for the development of a body focused on translating genomic research breakthroughs into better treatments for cancers and rare diseases.

For Genomics Australia to fulfill its transformational potential, it must secure the resourcing and buy-in of all states and territories.

In addition, a pathway for developing this body within the department into an independent agency must be identified.

Academy President, Professor Louise Baur AM, welcomed newly announced Federal funding for the creation of Genomics Australia, and highlighted the need for this to be accompanied by state and territory support, “as it’s within these jurisdictions that key clinical work – e.g. genetic counselling, clinical genetics and testing – is designed and undertaken.”

“For Australians to benefit from advancements in genomics and precision medicine, Australia requires a truly independent and adequately resourced genomics agency,” she said.

“The Government’s establishment of Genomics Australia is a step in the right direction towards ensuring that Australia can harness its world-leading research, translating laboratory breakthroughs to patients’ bedsides.”

The Academy will have more to say on the establishment of Genomics Australia in time.