CSL Seqirus opened its new high-tech cell-based influenza vaccine and antivenom manufacturing facility in Melbourne yesterday, with Minister for Health, Disability and Ageing Mark Butler in attendance to cut the ribbon.
The 28,400m2 facility near Melbourne Airport will use innovative cell technology to manufacture seasonal and pandemic flu vaccines, as well as Australian antivenoms and the world's only human vaccine for Q fever.
It will also help expand global access to cell-based vaccines, with the ability to meet local demand plus that of other regions, including Asia, Europe, the Middle East and the Americas.
The operation replaces CSL Seqirus' existing egg-based vaccine manufacturing facility in Melbourne, marking the end of an era spanning 80 years in manufacturing innovation.
Cell-based influenza vaccines are designed to be an exact match to the WHO-selected influenza strains, and recent real-world data showed that cell-based influenza vaccines were nearly 20% more effective at preventing test-confirmed influenza relative to traditional standard-dose egg-based vaccines (PD 11 Jun).
The facility supports a long-term partnership with the Federal Government to protect Australia's health by providing sovereign manufacturing capability and supply of pandemic influenza vaccines, antivenoms and Q fever vaccine.
CSL invested over $1 billion to build the digitally-enabled and environmentally sustainable facility, with the Victorian Government also contributing to the project.
"We have always been a uniquely Australian company and so opening this onshore facility today is a proud day for us," said CSL Chief Executive Officer, Paul McKenzie.
"This facility is an investment in the health and economy of Australia and the world.
"It will expand global capacity and access to our next-generation flu vaccines that will help reduce the significant burden of influenza around the world," McKenzie stated.
Health Minister Mark Butler highlighted a future where world-leading flu vaccine and antivenom manufacturing is Australian made.
"Through our partnerships with companies like CSL, the Albanese Government is ensuring the health of Australians is protected - whether that's seasonal flu, a bite or sting from a venomous creature or pandemic threats like avian influenza," Butler said. KB
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