The government of Australian state Victoria has signed a deal with a Korean medical institute to work together on mRNA vaccine research.
Some of the earliest vaccines approved for use against COVID-19, the Pfizer and Moderna shots, are based on mRNA technology.
The vaccines are designed to teach the body’s cells to make a protein that will trigger an immune response, preparing the immune system for any exposure to the virus.
The memorandum of understanding between mRNA Victoria and the Korean Health and Industry Development Institute, which is overseen by the country’s health department, will see both parties work together on joint early-stage RNA research, clinical trials, and manufacturing investment.
While South Korea has specialised bio-manufacturing facilities, Victoria has an edge in vaccine research and development.
The South Korean government has pledged $2.4 billion to become a major global COVID-19 manufacturing centre by 2025, while the Victorian government is aiming to make the state a hub for developing mRNA and RNA technology.
Clinical trials are already being funded by mRNA Victoria for a locally developed and manufactured COVID-19 vaccine, which is expected to be available in the first half of 2022.
It comes as another 11 COVID-19 deaths and 6075 new cases were reported in Victoria on Saturday.
There are 40,530 active cases in the state, with 175 people in hospital, 22 in intensive care, and four on ventilation.
Victoria has 62.2 per cent of adults vaccinated with three doses, ahead of mandatory vaccination rules kicking in for key workers.
After being pushed back, the deadline is fast approaching for aged care, disability, emergency service, meat processing, quarantine and food distribution workers to get their third jab.
From 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, these workers, including contractors, volunteers and students on placement, will need to have received a third dose to attend work.
Healthcare workers who received their first jab before September 12 will also be required to have their third before 11:59 p.m. on Saturday.
