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Our History

Celebrating 40-years

From humble beginnings with fewer than 100 members in the 1980s, AusBiotech has grown to be a thriving, well-connected community of more than 3,500 members.

This year, we proudly celebrate 40 years of advocacy, connection, and leadership for Australia’s life sciences sector — reflecting our resilience, vision, and commitment. As we look to the future, AusBiotech will continue to support Australia’s life sciences sector to research, translate, develop, commercialise, and manufacture health innovations that improve lives, strengthen our economy, and protect our nation’s health security.

A legacy of advocacy and growth

From supporting an emerging biotechnology sector in the 1980s to championing today’s dynamic ecosystem of researchers, start-ups, SMEs, and global companies, AusBiotech has remained a steadfast advocate for innovation vital to Australia’s future.

Our history reflects a trusted, resilient community united by a shared vision: translating world-leading research into health innovations that benefit people in Australia and worldwide.

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Honorary life members

AusBiotech acknowledges and honours the outstanding contributions of its Honorary Life Members.

  • Dr Anna Lavelle:CEO for 11+ years, named among the 100 most influential people in global life sciences (2015), conferred Life Membership in 2016.
  • Dr Peter Riddles:Oversaw the transition from ABA to AusBiotech as President, recognised with Life Membership in 2004.
  • Dr Martin Playne: Founder of the Australian Biotechnology Association (now AusBiotech), Honorary Life Member since 2000.


Honorary orations

The Depaz and Millis Orations honour two remarkable pioneers of Australia’s life sciences industry and serve as a focal point of the annual AusBiotech Conference. The Millis Oration, named in recognition of Emeritus Professor Nancy Millis’s outstanding contribution to the sector, is presented each year at the International AusBiotech Conference in partnership with CSL. In 2025, AusBiotech introduced the Depaz Oration, an annual keynote established in memory of the late Dr Iris Depaz, recognising her enduring impact on the industry, in partnership with Sanofi.

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Be part of the next chapter

For 40 years, AusBiotech has helped shape Australia’s life sciences sector. Join the community building on that legacy and driving tomorrow’s breakthroughs.

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