Newcastle Permanent and the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) have announced a new partnership, powered by a two-million-dollar donation to advance the impact of medical research, nurture local talent, and drive breakthroughs to create the healthiest people on the planet.

 A testament to both organisations’ commitment to the Hunter, this partnership represents an investment in the future of the region. 

The partnership will include an Innovation Accelerator to progress cutting-edge research concepts while the Newcastle Permanent Emerging Innovator Award will recognise promising researchers in the ecosystem across the University of Newcastle and the Hunter New England Local Health District. 
 
Professor Frances Kay-Lambkin, Institute Director and CEO of HMRI, shared, “We’re thrilled to launch the Newcastle Permanent Innovation Partnership. Together, we’re poised to transform the health and wellbeing of our communities.” 

“This collaboration will drive novel health solutions by combining our ecosystem’s world-class research with Newcastle Permanent’s unwavering commitment to community wellbeing. A key focus is supporting emerging researchers in the Hunter New England region as they work to tackle the diseases affecting our families, friends and communities.” 
 
Newcastle Permanent is partnering for good 

Bernadette Inglis, CEO of NGM Group, of which Newcastle Permanent is a part, believes strongly in the significant benefits for the community of this unique partnership.  

“We believe this partnership is a new model for how industry can collaborate with research institutions to drive innovation and positive social change. By fostering a culture of collaboration and investment-readiness, we’re helping to ensure that the Hunter region becomes a global leader in medical research.” 

“HMRI is brimming with talented individuals, and our hope is that this partnership will accelerate the development of world-leading research that can make a lasting difference to the health of our community and beyond.” 

“They have an outstanding track record of producing research that saves lives, and we are exceptionally proud to partner with them to support even more life-changing discoveries,” said Ms Inglis.   

This partnership between Newcastle Permanent and HMRI is a natural fit for two iconic organisations working for the Hunter region.  

The multi-million-dollar partnership will establish a pre-investment program designed to support emerging researchers in advancing their innovative ideas from conception to market readiness.  By providing mentoring and strategic guidance, the platform aims to bridge the critical gap that often exists between groundbreaking research and successful commercialisation.  

“With health and well-being at the forefront of our customers’ minds, we are committed to supporting cutting-edge research and innovation that has the potential to transform lives. By investing in this partnership, we’re not only backing groundbreaking research but also helping to bridge the gap between lab discoveries and real-world solutions in medical innovation,” said Ms Inglis.  

“Our goal is to ensure the incredible research taking place right here in New Lambton can have a tangible, lasting impact on the health of our community and the world.” 

Reimagining the business of medical research 

The partnership is a new step towards connecting researchers, industry leaders and investors, driving research impact and economic growth in the Hunter New England region. 

 Professor Kay-Lambkin explains, “Partnerships are the foundation of HMRI’s success, and it is partnerships like this one that will help us to create an agile, transformative future for medical research, deeply connected to our community. Our 26-year strong partnership with the University of Newcastle and the Hunter New England Local Health District has set the scene for HMRI to help break down barriers between researchers, clinicians, industry and investors, to ensure the best ideas get the support they need to make a real-world difference.” 

“HMRI HQ will be the hub of this transformation, where collaboration with industry leaders and investors will accelerate healthcare solutions and connect to our thriving innovation ecosystem across the University and Health District. This is more than a partnership; it’s a reimagining of how we do the business of medical research.” 

“This is a lovely coming of age development for HMRI,” reflected Professor Kay-Lambkin.  

“The Newcastle Permanent was one of three founding partners in the establishment of HMRI over 26 years ago, transforming our local health and medical research effort at the time. And here it is supporting again in a transformation for our community.” 

Leaders and experts praise the partnership 

Professor Chris Levi, Director of Learning Health Systems at John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct and HMRI Board Member, praised the partnership for its innovative approach to funding medical research, especially as government grants become more limited.  
 
“We’re excited about this partnership and how it supports the HMRI 2023+ Strategy and the Innovation Precinct. It puts our community at the heart of healthcare advancements, ensuring research is both cutting-edge and relevant to local needs.” 
 
Warwick Dawson, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Industry and Engagement at the University of Newcastle, emphasised the partnership’s role in sustaining the region’s medical research and innovation. 
 
“This partnership is crucial for future-proofing the region’s ability to lead in health innovation. By linking University and HMRI research with industry, we’re building a pipeline of innovation that will benefit our health and drive economic and social growth.”