The need

Increasing genomics innovation and its translation and adoption into the healthcare system to improve patient outcomes.

Fifteen years ago, the first ever genome sequencing project carried out on humans, called the Human Genome Project, was completed. It took more than 13 years to accomplish, cost more than $3 billion and drew on efforts from scientists and non-scientists around the world.

Since then, the entire landscape of genome sequencing has evolved rapidly, such that the genomics market is projected to double to USD $35.7 billion by 2024, subsequently revolutionising biomedical research and with it, medical practice.

Genomics technology is a relatively new and disruptive technology in healthcare, however its successful implementation relies on whole-of-system change. Through the possibilities of rapid diagnosis, early intervention, prevention and targeted therapy, genomic medicine has the potential to transform how we deliver healthcare, promising better patient outcomes and a more efficient health system.

In the next five years, genomic data from an estimated 60 million patients globally, is expected to be generated from health care. The volume and complexity of that data – and how it is accessed, shared and applied – are enormous. So too are the associated issues around genomic medicine such as data storage, ethics and privacy, nationally-consistent practices, patient access, economic impact and workforce capability.

This partnership establishes our place on the international stage, to realise a future where genomics enables precision medicine through innovations in molecular diagnostics, the development of targeted breakthrough therapies and disease prevention.