A new manufacturing facility dedicated to producing an innovative cancer treatment has officially opened in Boronia, Victoria. The Ehrlich Bioconjugation Centre, operated by IDT Australia, is the first in Australia accredited to produce Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADCs) for research, clinical trials, and commercial use.
ADCs are designed to deliver chemotherapy drugs directly to cancer cells, improving treatment effectiveness and reducing side effects.
“This facility positions Victoria as a significant contributor to cancer treatment innovation and advanced manufacturing capabilities,” industry and advanced manufacturing minister, Colin Brooks said.
These therapies have shown particular benefits in treating certain types of breast cancer, including metastatic, HER2-positive, and triple-negative cancers. Local production of ADCs aims to increase access to this treatment within Australia.
The global market for ADCs is projected to grow substantially over the next 15 years, potentially replacing a significant portion of traditional chemotherapy treatments.
“The opening of this centre supports local employment and reinforces Victoria’s standing in medical research,” economic growth and jobs minister, Danny Pearson said.
The facility is expected to create 88 skilled jobs in the Boronia area and strengthen Victoria’s role in advanced medical manufacturing. The Victorian Industry Policy highlights health technologies and medical research as key sectors for innovation and economic development.
“This facility brings advanced cancer treatment manufacturing to Boronia, supporting local jobs and innovation,” Bayswater member, Jackson Taylor said.
Victoria’s health technologies sector currently contributes $21.4 billion to the economy, exporting $3.8 billion worth of pharmaceuticals annually, which represents over half of Australia’s pharmaceutical exports. The sector employs over 51,000 people.
The 2025/26 Victorian Budget includes investments of more than $24 million in medical research and $150 million in a new Victorian Investment Fund aimed at supporting businesses in priority sectors, including medical technology.
“We appreciate the support that enables us to advance ADC technology and contribute to treatments that can benefit cancer patients in Victoria and Australia,” IDT Australia chief executive officer, Paul McDonald said.
