Southern RNA’s new R&D laboratories mark a powerful step forward for mRNA research, strengthening Australia’s biotech capability and the Gold Coast’s role in global health innovation
A major step forward for personalised medicine is underway on the Gold Coast, as Southern RNA officially opened its new research and development laboratories at Cohort Innovation Space within the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct (GCHKP).
The launch event brought together more than 100 guests, including researchers, clinicians, entrepreneurs, and government and industry leaders, to celebrate this milestone in the city’s growing biotech ecosystem.
Supported through the City of Gold Coast’s Investment and Business Attraction Program, Southern RNA’s relocation represents a major boost to Australia’s mRNA research capability and reinforces the city’s position as an emerging hub for health innovation.
Collaboration Creating Global Impact
Southern RNA, a leading Australian contract development and manufacturing organisation (CDMO), has partnered with Canadian-founded Providence Therapeutics to advance personalised cancer vaccines and RNA-based therapeutics.
“The precinct connects researchers, clinicians and entrepreneurs in one place, creating the network we need to translate discovery into therapies faster,” said Southern RNA Managing Director, Chris Peck. “Our facility here will enable us to move from R&D to clinical trials and full-scale GMP manufacturing, keeping capability and talent onshore.”
Providence Therapeutics CEO Brad Sorenson said the partnership would deliver life-saving therapies more quickly to Australian patients.
“Our immunotherapies are giving children with brain cancer a fighting chance. Partnering with Southern RNA means these treatments can be made here in Australia, without delays, and reach families when they need them most,” he said.
“As a parent whose son Adam was diagnosed with late-stage glioblastoma at 13 and told he wouldn’t survive past 14, I know what it means to be given hope. Adam is now 25, proof of what this science can achieve and why bringing it to Australia matters so deeply.”
Hope and Human Impact
That impact is already being seen in Queensland. Ian Gillespie AM, a Brisbane patient who has received treatment through Providence’s personalised cancer vaccine program, shared how the therapy has transformed his outlook.
“The treatment has given me hope, dignity and the confidence to look ahead. My health has improved, I’m almost pain-free, and I can focus on living well with my family,” Mr Gillespie said.
A Shared Commitment to Innovation
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the arrival of Southern RNA and Providence Therapeutics highlighted the city’s ambition to grow a future-focused economy.
“Our economy is worth close to $50 billion annually, and our health and knowledge sector is at its heart,” Mayor Tate said. “Through our Investment and Business Attraction Program, Council supports companies like Southern RNA and Providence because we know these partnerships create jobs today and opportunities for tomorrow.”
Craig Rowsell, Director of the GCHKP, said the partnership reflected the purpose of the precinct itself.
“The arrival of Southern RNA and Providence Therapeutics is a powerful example of what the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct was designed to achieve, bringing together research, industry and government to deliver innovation that has real impact for patients.”
Driving Research Collaboration
Southern RNA’s presence also deepens its existing MRFF-funded research partnership with Griffith University’s Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics, enabling faster translation of research into clinical outcomes.
“The close proximity to our Institute will accelerate R&D and manufacturing aspects of our existing and future joint projects,” said Dr Chris Davis, General Manager of the Institute. “It will build further knowledge and capability on the Gold Coast in biomedical technologies.”
A Story of Innovation and Hope
Providence Therapeutics was founded by Brad Sorenson after his son Adam was diagnosed with stage-four glioblastoma and given a terminal prognosis. Through their pioneering vaccine technology, Adam’s health improved, and he continues to thrive today.
Watch Adam’s inspiring story here: Adam’s Journey – Providence Therapeutics
Looking Ahead
Southern RNA’s establishment at the GCHKP represents more than a new facility. It reflects confidence in the Gold Coast’s growing reputation as a centre for biomedical innovation, collaboration, and impact.
