Centre for Pathogen Genomics welcomes the newly published Australian Government National Microbial Genomics Framework 2025 – 2027

The Centre for Pathogen Genomics at the University of Melbourne welcomes the release of the Australian Government's National Microbial Genomics Framework for Public Health 2025-2027. The frameworks recognition of the importance of integrating genomics into surveillance systems, improving data governance, building workforce capabilities, and driving research and innovation align closely with the strategic priorities of the Centre.

"This national framework rightly emphasises the critical role that pathogen genomics plays in protecting public health by enhancing our ability to detect, monitor and respond to infectious disease threats," said Prof. Ben Howden, Co-Director. "The Centre's activities are very well-aligned with the strategic priorities outlined."

The Centre conducts cutting-edge research across infectious diseases, metagenomics, data analytics and visualisation. It also has a strong focus on capacity building, training and implementation science to evaluate how genomics can be effectively integrated into public health and clinical practice.

A key part of the Centre's mission is capacity building through its extensive training program to support genomic surveillance across the Asia-Pacific region. "We have partnerships with public health labs and research institutions to provide workforce training in pathogen genomics," said Chantel Lin, Partnerships and Implementation Manager. "Promoting equitable access to this expertise is vital."

The Centre has been recognised in the Framework alongside globally leading organisations contributing to international development in microbial genomics, highlighting the Centre’s role as  in being an academic and training hub for infectious diseases across the Asia-Pacific region.

"We welcome the framework's emphasis on a nationally coordinated, collaborative approach," Dr Chuan Lim, Co-Director said. "Harnessing genomics' full potential requires cooperation across sectors and borders. This roadmap will help ensure Australia remains at the forefront."

The Centre looks forward to continuing its close work with public health agencies, laboratories, research groups and global initiatives to strengthen pathogen genomics capabilities.

The National Microbial Genomics Framework for Public Health 2025 – 2027 was published on 7 March 2025 by the Interim Australian Centre for Disease Control. More about the framework here