Joint media release with Minister for Health the Hon Greg Hunt MP

The Morrison Government is backing start-ups dedicated to fighting disease, with funding under the Government’s Incubator Support initiative.

The Health 10x program will accelerate start-ups whose products and services address non-communicable diseases in areas with growing demand for treatment.

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the $295,000 grant will go to the University of New South Wales to deliver the Health 10x program in partnership with The George Institute.

“This project will help develop innovative products and services to improve the lives of people suffering from diseases including cardiovascular disease and diabetes,” Minister Andrews said.

“Through support of programs like Health 10x, the Government is supporting initiatives aimed at reducing the incidence of disease and improving health outcomes, particularly in vulnerable communities here and overseas.

“This funding will also support jobs and growth in Australia’s health sector. We want to give innovative businesses the opportunity to commercialise innovative treatments which they can take to global health care markets.”

Minister for Health, Greg Hunt, welcomed the announcement, saying the Incubator Support Initiative was yet another example of “the Morrison Government’s commitment to a healthier Australia”.

“These cutting-edge products and services will make a difference to many Australians suffering ill-health. They will save lives and protect lives,” Minister Hunt said.

“This funding is only possible because of the Morrison Government’s strong economic management.”

The World Health Organisation states that non-communicable diseases are responsible for 71 per cent of deaths globally, and are closely linked to poverty.

The incidence of non-communicable disease in Indigenous communities and in developing nations tends to be higher due to a combination of genetic, environmental and behavioural factors.

The main types of non-communicable diseases are cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack and stroke, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes.

Since 2016, over $20.4 million in funding has been awarded under the Incubator Support initiative, which is part of the Coalition Government’s Entrepreneurs’ Programme.

For more information on Incubator Support grant recipients go to www.business.gov.au/incubator-recipients

For more information on how to apply for an Incubator Support grant, go to www.business.gov.au/assistance/incubator-support

Media contacts:

Minister Andrews' office 02 6277 7070

Minister Hunt's office 02 6277 7220