Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ) is the Queensland Government’s dedicated agency for promoting international trade and investment. TIQ helps Queensland businesses expand into global markets and attracts international investors to support the state’s economic growth. The agency provides expert advice, market intelligence, and global connections across key sectors such as advanced manufacturing, life sciences, renewable energy, food and agribusiness, education, and tourism infrastructure.

TIQ operates a network of international offices across key markets including North America, the United Kingdom, Europe, Greater China, Southeast Asia, Japan, Korea, India, the Middle East, and New Zealand, as well as regional offices throughout Queensland.

Why work with us

Queensland – Life Sciences Innovation Hub

Queensland is a leading Asia-Pacific hub for life sciences innovation, supported by a dynamic network of globally connected research institutes, clinical infrastructure, and health and knowledge precincts. The state’s ecosystem spans biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and digital health, with a strong emphasis on translational research and commercialisation.

At the heart of this ecosystem are two world-renowned research institutes:

• QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute – A globally respected organisation conducting advanced research in cancer, infectious diseases, mental health, and complex disorders, with a strong focus on translating discoveries into clinical outcomes.
• Translational Research Institute (TRI) – A unique multidisciplinary facility bringing together researchers, clinicians, and industry to accelerate medical breakthroughs from lab to patient. TRI is also home to TM@TRI, a dedicated translational manufacturing facility supporting the clinical production of advanced biotherapeutics.

These institutes are embedded within major precincts that provide a collaborative foundation for innovation:

• Boggo Road Innovation Precinct – A growing life sciences and technology precinct anchored by TRI, TM@TRI, and commercial innovation partners.
• Herston Health Precinct – A leading academic and hospital-based ecosystem, co-locating health services, training, and research including the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital and QIMR Berghofer.
• Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct (GCHKP) – A thriving centre for health, science, and innovation, anchored by Gold Coast University Hospital, Griffith University, and Lumina commercial development.

Queensland’s life sciences sector is underpinned by a strong university network, including The University of Queensland (UQ), Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Griffith University, and James Cook University (JCU). These institutions are ranked among the world’s best and offer outstanding biomedical, engineering, and health science research and training. Their strong industry linkages and innovation pipelines drive commercial outcomes and talent development.

Queensland’s ecosystem has delivered globally recognised innovations, including:

• Gardasil – The world’s first HPV vaccine, developed at the University of Queensland.
• Vaxxas – Developer of the needle-free microarray vaccine patch platform.
• Rediroom – A portable, single-use patient isolation room adopted worldwide.
• De Motu Cordis – Innovators in critical care, including an inhalable treatment for anaphylaxis.
• Laronix – Creators of the first AI-powered bionic voice prosthesis.
• Protagonist Therapeutics – A Queensland spinout now NASDAQ-listed, advancing oral peptide drugs.
• Bivacor – Developers of a total artificial heart, with origins in Queensland biomedical engineering.

With a focus on collaboration, clinical trial excellence, and translation to impact, Queensland offers an ideal environment for life sciences innovation, investment, and global partnership.