The creation of novel and redesigned biological components, networks and systems is at the core of synthetic biology. Emerging from the established field of gene technology, synthetic biology applies engineering principles to biology to allow the rational design, construction and combination of nucleic acid sequences or proteins, using standardised genetic parts. This approach opens up new opportunities for us to design and create novel metabolic pathways, derive valuable biomolecules, and produce engineered organisms for use in a number of environmental, industrial, and medical applications.

Synthetic biology provides new ways to address major societal challenges in energy and food production, environmental protection and healthcare. The rapid advancement of synthetic biology as a field is being driven by major investments made by several leading research nations, including the US, the UK, China, Singapore and Korea.

Given the breadth of potential applications for synthetic biology, strategically building capabilities in areas of strength will be critical for Australia’s future prosperity. The report identifies these areas as industry and energy, agriculture and food, environment and biocontrol, and health and medicine. Synthetic biology provides opportunities for the development of new industries that will produce new and improved products and services, ranging from specialty chemicals, pharmaceuticals and vaccines, to biosensors and bioremediation products, to biofuels. These industries will provide new jobs and exports and support the continued growth of the Australian economy. Our agriculture sector will be highly dependent on the adoption of synthetic biology to remain competitive and to control invasive pests and diseases. The health of Australians will be greatly enhanced by our uptake of synthetic biology applications to improve the diagnosis and treatment of disease, and to improve our diet.

Beyond the existing and developing applications discussed in this report, synthetic biology is also likely to have broad-reaching and unforeseen impacts. Diverse industries are likely to be expanded, while others will be transformed or replaced. There is substantial uncertainty surrounding the social, environmental and economic impacts that synthetic biology will have on Australia and we must be prepared for the transformative changes this field can and will have. Hence the report also considers the social, ethical and regulatory frameworks that will be needed to support its future governance and advancement.

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