Australia’s largest life sciences investment conference, AusBiotech Invest 2025, commenced today, bringing together investors, innovators, and global partners to engage with Australia’s most promising biotechnology and medical technology companies. This event showcases a rapidly growing sector, with nearly 1,600 biotech and medtech companies now operating in Australia, a number that has doubled over the past eight years. The industry now accounts for one in every 60 jobs in the country, with the market capitalisation of ASX-listed companies increasing fivefold from $50 billion in 2017 to approximately $250 billion today.
Growing Opportunities in Life Sciences
According to Kerri Lee Sinclair, Head of Investment at AusBiotech, “AusBiotech Invest continues to evolve as a strategic platform to connect capital with innovation.” She highlighted the calibre of participants this year, emphasizing that the maturity of Australia’s life sciences sector is evident in the repeatable commercial successes and globally significant deal flows being showcased.
The conference welcomed nearly 300 delegates, who had the opportunity to view presentations from 23 innovative private and listed Australian biotech companies. This provides a substantial opportunity for investors and potential partners to connect directly with firms actively seeking funding and collaborative development. Among the presenting companies are Amplia Therapeutics Ltd (ASX: ATX), Arovella Therapeutics (ASX: ALA), and Chimeric Therapeutics (ASX: CHM), among others.
Insights and Discussions Shaping the Future
The 2025 program features thought leadership from both local and international investment leaders. Key discussions will delve into capital formation and emerging technologies that are set to drive the next phase of growth in biotech. One notable session includes insights from Megan Hooton, President of IQVIA Biotech, and Sarah Meibusch, Partner at OneVentures, who will discuss how global trends, data-driven strategies, and artificial intelligence are redefining clinical success. This session aims to provide actionable insights for investors and biotech executives focused on improving trial efficiency and asset performance.
Another highlight is a panel discussion titled “Building Australia’s Future Life Sciences Capital Stack – Repeatable Success Stories.” Participants include prominent figures such as Medard Fischer from Cochlear and Chris Nave from Brandon Capital. The discussion will unpack the ingredients necessary for sustainable investment success and explore how Australia can enhance its capital stack to bolster global growth.
Keynote presentations will further enrich the conference, including insights from Blair Harrison, Head of Listings – New Zealand at ASX, who will provide a deep dive into market dynamics affecting ASX-listed biotech performance and investor sentiment. Additionally, global venture capitalist Nick Pachuda will share strategies on how Australia can cultivate local life sciences leaders by adapting successful international models to strengthen its capital base.
As Australia’s life sciences sector continues to mature, events like AusBiotech Invest not only highlight the advancements in biotechnology but also foster connections that could lead to significant contributions to global health and innovation.
