WA's leading medical research organisation, The Kids Research Institute Australia, has welcomed the State Government's budget commitment to innovation and medical research.
Treasurer Mike Nahan announced in his budget speech yesterday the State Government will spend $20 million over the next four years to support researchers, innovators and start-up businesses.
He confirmed this was on top of the $30 million being spent on defence industries, shipbuilding and science, and the tens of millions already being spent on health and medical research.
The Kids Research Institute Australia director Professor Jonathan Carapetis said the budget announcement was good news for WA families as well as the research sector.
"There are many families in this state whose future depends on breakthroughs in medical research," Professor Carapetis said. "It is good to see the state government continuing to increase its commitment in this area."
"Focusing on innovation and start-ups will foster the translation of great WA science into products that can help to prevent and treat disease, and has the added benefit of broadening the WA economic base"
About The Kids Research Institute Australia:
The Kids Research Institute Australia is one of the largest, and most successful medical research institutes in Australia, comprising a dedicated and diverse team of more than 500 staff and students.
We've created a bold blueprint that brings together community, researchers, practitioners, policy makers and funders, who share our vision to improve the health and wellbeing of children through excellence in research.
The Institute is headed by leading paediatrician and infectious diseases expert Professor Jonathan Carapetis, with Founding Director Professor Fiona Stanley now Patron.
The Kids is independent and not-for-profit. The majority of funding comes from our success in winning national and international competitive research grants. We also receive significant philanthropic support from corporate Australia and the community.