South East Queensland (SEQ) is on the cusp of a significant innovation surge, thanks to strategic investments from the Australian and Queensland governments. The SEQ Innovation Economy Fund is propelling eight key projects that will enhance the region's capabilities in critical sectors, contributing to the broader $1.8 billion SEQ City Deal.

These projects will leverage cutting-edge innovation to address crucial challenges across various fields, including advanced technology, biosecurity in agriculture, biotechnology, future skills development, sustainable resource management, and healthcare advancements. By enhancing innovation infrastructure within SEQ's key precincts, these initiatives will foster knowledge-intensive job creation and drive growth in vital industries.

Projects

Southern RNA Pty Ltd (Brisbane Technology Park, Brisbane)

  • The LNP-mRNA-Enable Project (LEAP) will enhance Queensland’s biopharmaceutical infrastructure by creating a GMP LNP-mRNA formulation capability. This will support clinical trials for the next wave of mRNA therapies targeting infectious diseases and cancers, strengthening SEQ's position in advanced biopharmaceutical research and development.

Therapeutic Innovation Australia Limited (Boggo Road Innovation Precinct, Brisbane)

  • This project will establish an Australian-first Bioproduction Hub, enabling the production of biologics, vaccines, radiopharmaceuticals, and mRNA therapeutics to support early-stage clinical trials. This facility will streamline the pathway from scientific discovery to clinical evaluation, enhancing SEQ's capacity in advanced medical manufacturing and research, and accelerating the development of new therapies.

Translational Research Institute Pty Ltd (Boggo Road Innovation Precinct, Brisbane)

  • The TM@TRI Supercharge Project will upgrade ICT, digital infrastructure, and equipment to enhance the TM@TRI facility. This will improve the speed and efficiency for emerging med-tech and biotech companies, accelerating the development of new medical technologies.

University of Queensland (Queensland Animal Science Precinct, Lockyer Valley)

  • The Queensland Animal Science Innovation Hub will provide a platform for animal producers, farmers, and industry to test, trial, scale, and commercialise new farming and biosecurity innovations. This hub will enhance food security and strengthen the supply of high-quality animal products, benefiting both Queensland and global markets.

University of the Sunshine Coast (Innovation Centre Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast)

  • The Future Skills Lab will feature five specialised innovation labs, delivered in partnership with industry equipped with the latest tools and resources, to accelerate the design, prototyping, and testing of cutting-edge digital innovations. This initiative will develop a future-ready workforce, equipping SEQ residents with the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy.

Urban Utilities (Luggage Point Innovation Precinct, Brisbane)

  • The Luggage Point Innovation Precinct Expansion will create new spaces for pilot projects, sampling, and research, driving the development and commercialisation of innovative water-related products and technologies. This expansion will accelerate recycled water innovation, improve water resource management, address persistent contaminants, and enable the production of novel products from biogas, biosolids, and organic waste, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Witmack Industrial Pty Ltd (AATLIS Innovation Precinct, Toowoomba)

  • The AATLIS Innovation Precinct Industry Biotechnology Centre will establish Australia’s first vertically integrated biotechnological facility for distribution, sales, logistics, R&D, and toll manufacturing. This collaborative effort will foster innovation and drive sustainability in the agrochemical and industrial sectors, creating new opportunities in regional Queensland.

Griffith University (Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct, Gold Coast)

  • The Health and Advanced Technology Research and Innovation Centre will create a seamless interface between university research and development and commercialisation with industry partners. The Centre will foster innovations in areas such as spinal injury repair, new vaccines, rehabilitation equipment, customised bionics, and sustainable technologies, strengthening SEQ's position as a leader in health and advanced technology.

These projects will serve as vital hubs for innovation, addressing pressing social and economic challenges. Through collaborative research, commercialisation, advanced technology, and expert knowledge, these initiatives will drive SEQ forward, fostering a resilient and thriving society.

The SEQ City Deals is a partnership between the Australian Government, Queensland Government and Council of Mayors (SEQ).

You can find out more about the SEQ Innovation Economy Fund.

Last updated: 17 Apr 2025