Increased funding for CERA in Victorian budget

The budget measure is the first substantial state government funding increase to the sector in more than a decade, and will see $8 million in additional support in the first year. That number is expected to increase annually and will assist with the creation of high-paying local jobs, technology advancent and the development of translational research pathways.CERA managing director Professor Jonathan Crowston welcomed the announcent.“The Centre for Eye Research Australia applauds the announcent of increased funding of independent medical research organisations by the Victorian State Government,” he said.“The funding boost recognises the excellence of the state’s research institutes and the major contributions that they have made to the health and well-being of Victorians.”Victoria boasts 14 leading independent medical research institutes, including CERA, and president of the Victorian Chapter of the Association of Australian Medical Research Institutes, Professor Brendan Crabb, said the impact of the funding would be felt around the world.“Our organisations provide about 4,000 jobs, produce more than $500 million in annual revenue, and create $1 billion in annual economic impact. We are collectively globally renowned in key disease areas such as cancer, neurological diseases, infectious diseases, ageing, hearing and vision loss,” Crabb said.