Backed by even-handed regulation and strong government support, Australia's biotechnology sector ranks among the best in the world. With deep roots in biomedical research, and unique resources in biodiversity, Australia is home to a thriving network of more than 420 companies whose core business is in biotech, as well as 625 medical device companies, and many more in related fields.

Solid research capabilities produce a healthy pipeline of developing therapeutics and products, with 15 clinical trials announced in the last quarter of 2006 alone. Biopartnering is also a great Australian strength - of the 100 biotech partnerships formed in 2005, almost 80% were with international organisations often in the field of Cellular Biology Research.

Australia's reputation is steadily growing. An international benchmarking study released in November 2005 ranked Australia as the best location in the world to conduct clinical trials.