The Northern Territory's leading health research institute is set to double its capacity following a substantial grant from the Northern Territory Government.
The Territory Government has announced a $5.5 million grant to Charles Darwin University’s Menzies School of Health Research, allowing it to expand its workforce from 162 to 400 during the next 10 years.
Menzies' Director, Professor Jonathan Carapetis said the expansion was the next step towards helping to ensure a healthier future for thousands of Indigenous Australians.
“One of the things we are trying to do in the next 10 years is to continue the work we do in Indigenous health, tropical health and supporting the health of people in developing countries in our region,” he said.
“The diversity of our research at Menzies has expanded significantly in recent years and this expansion will allow us to continue to grow our research output as well as allowing us to attract and retain talented researchers within the Territory.”
Territory Health Minister Chris Burns said the grant would ensure the expansion of Menzies and improve health services for Territory families.
“Menzies is acknowledged as the leading research institute on tropical and Indigenous health in Australia and its international reputation continues to grow,” he said.
“The capital grant will enable Menzies to continue its important work, maintain growth in research funding and enlarge the Territory’s research workforce.”
Professor Carapetis said he was looking forward to expanding the school's research capabilities into other areas.
“We have got bigger plans for child health, particularly the early years,” he said.
“We are also very interested in expanding our work in mental health ... looking at prevention, particularly in remote communities.”
Work on the extension is expected to begin within 12 months.