PM reports progress on bionic eye
The Prime Minister has launched the research project for the development of an Australian built bionic eye.
This bionic eye is undergoing tests in preparation for the first human implant by 2013 and the project will keep Australia at the forefront of bionic research and commercialisation and has the potential to restore sight to thousands of people in Australia and across the world.
Mr Rudd said the project is a pioneering research project, and an important health project.
It is part of the Government’s commitment to medical research infrastructure – which received almost half a billion dollars in additional funding in last year’s Budget through the Health and Hospitals Fund.
The project is also part of the Government’s broader commitment to science and innovation, which received a 25% funding increase this year (to $8.6 billion), the biggest on record.
The project received impetus and Government funding following its discussion at the Australia 2020 Summit in April 2008.
