Queensland: Leading the charge in biomedical innovation
Queensland: Leading the charge in biomedical innovation
- biomedical
Queensland is rapidly becoming a national leader in biomedical innovation.
With strong government investment and collaboration with industry leaders, the state is driving the development of groundbreaking health technologies and world-class medical research.
Last month, department representatives visited WearOptimo, a Queensland-based health technology company making waves in the biomedical space.
WearOptimo: A shining example of local innovation
WearOptimo’s Founder and CEO, Professor Mark Kendall, said WearOptimo was creating the next generation of wearable sensors right here in Queensland.
“Our one-stop shop facility, where everything is Queensland made, allows us to reach deeper into the skin to detect signals that current wearables can’t access.”
WearOptimo’s South Brisbane facility, established with Queensland Government support, is the only one of its kind in the world. It has the capacity to produce up to 30 million Microwearable sensor chips annually.
“This advanced manufacturing facility is unique – no other place on the planet has what we’ve built here,” he said.
“We’re proud to say that governments around the world want access to this technology, but it’s Queensland that made it happen.”
Executive Director of Soveriegn industries, Denise Johnston, praised the impact of these investments, saying projects like WearOptimo foster innovation, create high-value jobs, and strengthen local supply chains.
“It’s about unlocking opportunities for Queenslanders while making a meaningful impact globally,” said Ms Johnston.
“We’re building an ecosystem that supports local innovators while attracting investment and talent from across the globe.”
Transforming healthcare, one patch at a time
WearOptimo’s Microwearable technology is a game-changer for healthcare. The small, sticker-like patches use artificial intelligence to deliver real-time health monitoring without invasive procedures.
“We’ve developed the world’s only wearable that effectively monitors hydration, and it’s been clinically proven here in Queensland,” said Professor Kendall.
“Hydration monitoring is critical for industries such as defence, mining, and sports, where dehydration and heat stress pose serious risks, but the potential applications extend even further.
“Hydration monitoring is just the beginning. This technology could transform how we manage life-threatening conditions like heart failure and sepsis.
“It’s about saving lives and improving healthcare outcomes globally—and it’s all happening here in Queensland.”
A bright future for Queensland’s biomedical sector
Queensland’s rise as a biomedical hub is supported by its robust network of research institutions, including QIMR Berghofer at Herston and the Translational Research Institute at Boggo Road.
These organisations are key to the state’s growing global reputation for medical research and innovation.
Looking ahead, Queensland will host the AusBiotech International and AusBioInvest Conferences on the Gold Coast in 2026 and in Brisbane in 2027. These, and past events, will continue to showcase Queensland’s leadership and attract global attention to the state’s biomedical capabilities.
Professor Kendall summed it up perfectly: “Queensland isn’t just participating in the global biomedical revolution – we’re driving it. With the support of the Queensland Government, we’re proving that homegrown innovation can tackle some of the world’s biggest health challenges.”
The Queensland Government is committed to growing the state’s $3 billion biomedical industry, creating high-value jobs and boosting economic growth. To learn more about our initiatives in the biomedical sector.
Last updated: 22 Jan 2026