RNA Biotechnologies

Biotechnologies use biological systems, living organisms, or parts of them, to create new products or improve existing ones.

Examples of these technologies include synthetic biology, neural engineering and brain-computer interfaces, genome and genetic sequencing and analysis, vaccines and medical countermeasures, and novel medicines, including nuclear, antiviral and antibiotic.

Biotechnologies have the capability to transform industries and unlock new ways to address global challenges, including:

• how we prepare for and respond to pandemics
• advanced diagnostic and therapeutic targeting
• engineering cells and enzymes to clean up environmental pollutants and recycle plastics
• engineering microorganisms to recover metals from ores and waste materials
• better disease treatments.

Recognising medical manufacturing and biotechnologies as areas where Australia has potential to develop an enduring comparative advantage, the Australian Government published Australia's RNA Blueprint in 2024.

The Blueprint explores how the RNA sector can contribute to our nation's industrial transformation and advanced manufacturing capability.