Australia is committed to a future without animal testing
Aiming for complete replacement in medicine within 15 years
A groundbreaking report by the Australian government research organisation highlights the potential of non-animal models to complement or completely replace animal testing in medical product development within the next 15 years.
Entitled “Non-animal models: A strategy for maturing Australia's medical product development capabilities”, the report focuses on the use of innovative, non-animal methods. Australia regards this as a strategic opportunity, as human-based methods outperform conventional animal experiments and a significant increase in the use of non-animal methods in all phases of medical product development is expected within the next 15 years. Australia is therefore aiming to take a leading role in this expanding field of research and secure its global competitiveness.
In order to effectively drive this transformation, the Australian governmental science agency CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation) developed a detailed strategy in collaboration with 66 stakeholders from science, industry and politics. The 55-page report, which was published in 2023, shows concrete ways of establishing non-animal models in medical research. These range from sophisticated computer models to three-dimensional cell cultures such as organoids and organ-on-chip technologies.
The CSIRO report highlights four main areas where non-animal technologies can be applied particularly well:
1. Complex in vitro models for drug discovery such as advanced cell cultures to accelerate the discovery of new drugs.
2. Organ-specific models for preclinical development - using models that replicate specific human organs in mini-form (organoids) to improve preclinical testing.
3. Personalized models for trial participant and clinical treatment selection.
4. On-shore production of non-animal methods components.
According to the report's forecasts, a non-animal technology industry in Australia could generate over AUD 1.5 billion (approx. EUR 860 million) in revenue and create more than 5,000 jobs by 2040. The main motivation is not so much animal welfare, but rather the concern of losing out internationally.
Initial measures were already implemented in 2024, including the establishment of the Non-Animal Technology Network (NAT-NET) and the adoption of international guidelines to promote non-animal methods.
By implementing this strategy, Australia aims not only to modernize its research landscape, but also to reap economic benefits and lead the global shift towards more ethical and efficient research methods. Greg Williams, Head of Health and Biosecurity at CSIRO, sums it up aptly: "There is so much to gain!"
References
AFSA. Non-Animal Technologies in Australia: 2024 Breakthroughs and Progress. 23.01.2025