The Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness (ACDP) has reached a significant milestone, marking its 40th anniversary as a leading institution in Australia’s defense against infectious diseases. Situated in Geelong, Victoria, ACDP operates as a high biocontainment facility, enabling critical research into some of the world’s most dangerous pathogens. As the threats posed by infectious diseases continue to escalate, the role of ACDP has become increasingly vital.
As Australia’s national reference laboratory, ACDP is integral to the nation’s biosecurity framework. Dr. Debbie Eagles, the facility’s director, emphasized the pressing nature of current disease threats, including H5 avian influenza, dengue, and lumpy skin disease. She stated, “Emerging infectious diseases are increasing in frequency and complexity, driven by factors like climate change, global trade, and interactions between wildlife, livestock, and people.”
Since its establishment in 1985, ACDP has pioneered advancements in disease research and response. The facility was designed for a lifespan of 100 years and features advanced engineering that meets the highest biocontainment standards. Operating continuously, ACDP conducts approximately 50,000 tests annually to confirm or exclude emergency diseases, providing essential services to state and territory governments.
Dr. Dwane O’Brien, ACDP’s deputy director, highlighted the facility’s impact on Australia’s diagnostic capabilities. “Before ACDP opened, most samples that needed to be tested for exotic animal diseases had to be sent overseas for analysis—a slow process that meant Australia didn’t have control over its own trade information,” he noted. The capacity to diagnose diseases quickly has greatly enhanced Australia’s ability to manage animal disease outbreaks.
Over the past four decades, ACDP has been instrumental in identifying critical pathogens, including the deadly Hendra virus, and has supported the development of vaccines such as the Equivac HeV vaccine for horses. Its contributions extend beyond national borders, playing key roles in the global responses to diseases like SARS, Nipah virus, and Ebola. More recently, ACDP has been pivotal in Australia’s response to COVID-19, focusing on understanding the virus and testing vaccine candidates.
The facility has also been active in addressing emerging threats such as the multi-state outbreaks of H7 bird flu and Japanese encephalitis virus. In a significant recent discovery, ACDP scientists published findings on the Salt Gully virus, a relative of Hendra, detected in Australian flying foxes.
In addition to its research and diagnostic efforts, ACDP extends its expertise to veterinarians and government personnel across Australia and the Indo-Pacific region. The facility offers technical advice and training aimed at enhancing regional capabilities to detect and manage emergency animal diseases, thereby strengthening surveillance efforts.
Dr. Eagles emphasized the importance of a holistic approach to health, stating, “At ACDP, we’re not just responding to outbreaks—we’re working to understand the pathogens behind them, how they spread, and how we can stop them.” This One Health perspective recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, which is central to ACDP’s mission.
Designated as a World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) Reference Laboratory for avian influenza and other high-consequence diseases, ACDP also holds three Reference Centre designations with the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization. These recognitions underscore the facility’s critical role in global disease preparedness and response.
As ACDP celebrates its legacy of innovation and resilience, it also looks to the future, armed with new technologies and international collaborations to combat the next significant health threats. The ongoing commitment of ACDP staff and their expertise ensures that Australia remains prepared in the face of emerging infectious diseases.
