Multiplex awarded contract for Moderna mRNA facility
Image credit: Multiplex
Melbourne is one step closer to having a new mRNA vaccine manufacturing facility, after Multiplex was awarded the construction contract by Moderna.
The facility will be located within the Monash Technology Precinct, and will be the first of its kind in the southern hemisphere. It’s being established under a 10-year partnership between Moderna, and the Victorian and Australian governments.
Designed by Greenbox, CRB and IPS, the facility will house pharmaceutical-grade space – including Drug Substance (DS) and Drug Product (DP) areas – within its 16,500 square metres. Additional features include laboratories, a warehouse with loading dock, and extensive outdoor landscaping.
Moderna’s new facility will be able to produce COVID vaccines – as well as mRNA vaccines for a variety of other respiratory illnesses. Importantly, it will supply Australia with its own onshore mRNA manufacturing capability in the event of a new pandemic.
Construction is due to be completed in 2024.