A group of Australian manufacturers and engineering firms will collaborate to produce invasive ventilators as part of the country’s response to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Led by Victorian company Grey Innovation, the industry consortium has reached a $31.3 million agreement with the Federal Government to supply 2000 machines by the end of July.
Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews welcomed the announcement as another great example of Australian industry working with the Government to ensure critical supply of medical equipment during the outbreak of the virus.
“This deal demonstrates the power of bringing Aussie manufacturers and clinicians together and is also a reflection of the highly advanced manufacturing capability that exists in our country,” the Minister continued.
“It also shows the incredible collaborative spirit that’s been on display as we respond to this unprecedented pandemic. Companies which are normally in competition are working together for the greater good.”
Grey Innovation Executive Chair Jefferson Harcourt said the move will the ensure adequate supply of lifesaving ventilators during the COVID-19 crisis.
“Victoria has the highest concentration of leading engineering and manufacturing companies in Australia, and as such, we are well placed to work together to build the Notus emergency invasive ventilators as quickly as possible,” Mr Harcourt added.
“We thank the Federal and Victorian Governments and the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre for their support of the vision and rapid response to get the program under way, and are overwhelmed by the willingness of our industry colleagues to respond in this critical hour of need.”
the program will utilise a certified mechanical ventilator design from a leading medical device company under licence for production in Victoria.
“The ventilator design is lightweight and portable and has been selected for its ability to be easily transferred to us for the actual production, and its ease of use for our medical teams,” said Prof. Bruce Thompson, Dean, School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, and a member of Grey Innovation’s medical and clinical advisory team.
“Grey Innovation has done an incredible job in bringing everyone together to make it happen; government, local businesses, clinicians. it’s amazing what can be achieved in the wake of a global crisis such as this,” Prof. Thompson concluded.
