Australia strengthens global biotech partnerships at world’s largest biotech event

Australia has strengthened international partnerships, showcased world-class innovation and created new pathways for trade and investment at BIO International Convention 2026 (BIO), the world’s largest biotechnology event.

Held in San Diego, California, BIO attracts more than 20,000 industry leaders from across the global life sciences sector each year. The event provides Australian companies with a platform to connect with investors, researchers, pharmaceutical companies and potential partners from around the world.

Supported by the Australian Government’s $55 million Accessing New Markets Initiative (ANMI) and delivered alongside Trade Diversification Network (TDN) partner AusBiotech, Team Australia brought together approximately 200 Australian companies and organisations across a coordinated national program designed to strengthen Australia’s global life sciences footprint.

The program showcased the breadth of Australia’s capabilities in biotechnology, clinical trials, therapeutics and translational research through pre-BIO roadshows, the inaugural Australia House event and a strong presence at the Australian Pavilion.

Building partnerships across key US biotech hubs

Ahead of the convention, Australian companies participated in roadshow events across California, Utah and Arizona. They engaged directly with industry leaders and potential partners in some of the United States’ most established biotech clusters.

The seminars explored new models of global clinical trial collaboration and highlighted Australia’s strengths as a destination for clinical research, innovation and investment.

In California, Austrade partnered with AUScelerate and Biocom California to deliver events in San Francisco and Los Angeles. In Salt Lake City and Phoenix, Austrade-led seminars were delivered in collaboration with regional industry and economic development organisations.

The roadshow helped Australian businesses raise awareness of their capabilities and identify new commercial opportunities in the US market.

Australian researchers and startups focused on artificial intelligence-enabled drug discovery and development also participated in a dedicated roundtable with US counterparts, exploring future partnership opportunities in one of the sector’s fastest-growing fields.

The mighty Australian delegation showcasing Australian biotech excellence at BIO 2026.

Australia House showcases the nation’s innovation ecosystem

A highlight of the week's program was the inaugural Australia House event, held in San Diego ahead of the convention.

Organised by Austrade in partnership with AusBiotech, the invite-only forum brought together industry leaders, investors, researchers and government representatives to explore opportunities for collaboration, trade and investment between Australia and the US.

The event reached full capacity, attracting 130 attendees and generating a waitlist, reflecting the strong interest in Australia’s life sciences sector and innovation ecosystem.

Through panel discussions and networking opportunities, Australia House showcased why global companies continue to partner with Australia for research, clinical trials, advanced manufacturing and commercialisation.

The event was followed by networking drinks and the CSL Australian BIO 2026 Dinner, further strengthening connections between Australian delegates and international stakeholders.

Showcasing Australian innovation on the global stage

Throughout BIO, the Australian Pavilion served as a central hub for engagement, connecting Australian companies with global partners, investors and industry decision-makers.

Developed through a collaboration between Austrade, state and territory partners and AUScelerate, the pavilion highlighted the diversity and depth of Australia’s life sciences ecosystem.

The week also featured several significant partnership announcements, including between QIMR Berghofer and Cell Therapy Manufacturing Centre (CTMC), and the signing of a memorandum of understanding between BioCina and Charles River Laboratories.

These outcomes reflected the increasing global recognition of Australian expertise and the value of international collaboration in accelerating innovation and commercialisation.

Phil Georgios, Trade and Investment Commissioner, New York, says BIO provides a unique opportunity for Australian companies to engage with the global life sciences community.

‘BIO is an unparalleled opportunity for Australian companies to connect with the life sciences ecosystem not only in the US, but globally. The week showcased Australia’s world-class innovation and allowed the strengthening of partnerships that will accelerate breakthroughs in years to come.’

Strengthening Australia’s life sciences sector

BIO provides a valuable platform to deepen existing relationships, build new connections and position Australian businesses for future growth. Powered by ANMI and the Australian Clinical Trials Initiative (ACTI), the program demonstrated the impact of coordinated government and industry collaboration in supporting Australian businesses to expand internationally.

From first conversations to future collaborations, Australia’s presence at BIO 2026 reinforced the country’s reputation as a trusted partner in global biotechnology and highlighted the innovation, capability and ambition driving Australia's life sciences sector.

By helping Australian companies connect with global partners and investors, ANMI continues to support export diversification, strengthen international competitiveness and create new opportunities for Australian businesses in high-growth markets.

EOIs open for ACTI 2026–27

Austrade has opened expressions of interest (EOI) for ACTI 2026–27. The program will focus on 9 key events to help Australian clinical trials companies connect with priority markets across Europe, North America and the Asia-Pacific.

Learn more about the ACTI 2026–27 program and express your interest in events.