Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research today announced that the inaugural Medical
Bionics Conference will be held in Australia later this year.
The Medical Bionics - a new paradigm for human health conference, will bring together medical technology researchers from across the world.
Medical bionics is a new and innovative industry which draws upon the biotechnology, engineering, ICT, medicine and nanotechnology fields.
"Australia's track record in medical bionics is internationally recognised," Senator Carr said.
"Part of this reputation has been earned as a result of the development of the world’s first multi-channel bionic ear. This Australian innovation had already improved the hearing of over 100,000 people globally.
"The technology developed through medical bionics helps to create electrical or mechanical devices used to diagnose, prevent or treat diseases or physical conditions.
"Artificial hearts, joint replacements and vascular stents are other examples of medical bionic products that are made in Australia," he said.
Senator Carr congratulated the Bionic Ear Institute for bringing the inaugural Medical Bionics Conference to Australia.
"As well as fostering innovation and collaboration, international conferences allow Australians to showcase their research and skills to industry and to the global marketplace.
"Collaborations between researchers are a vital part of the innovation process. It leads to innovation, and ultimately to new products that can address a range of health, economic and environmental challenges," Senator Carr said.
The Medical Bionics Conference will be held in Lorne, Victoria, from 16 – 19 November 2008 and will be hosted by the Bionic Ear Institute. The BEI, established in 1983, is an independent, non-profit, medical research organisation, which undertakes internationally renowned research focussed on neural prostheses and hearing science.
To read the Minister's announcement click here
Media contact: Patrick Pantano, Minister's Office, 0417 181 936