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AusBiotech and Medicines Australia are partnering to deliver the annual Women in Life Sciences luncheon, bringing together 600 leaders from across the sector to celebrate the contribution of women in life sciences and call for accelerated action toward gender equity.  

For nearly a decade, AusBiotech and Medicines Australia have honoured the women who transform life sciences into a sector of innovation and profound impact for International Women’s Day. This year's luncheon highlights the significant contributions of women in Australia’s life sciences and offers a powerful platform for celebration and networking, while also recognising that there’s more to be done for women in positions of senior leadership.  

Aligned with the IWD 2025 theme Accelerate Action, the luncheon will feature a panel conversation focusing on the need for equal opportunity at all levels within the industry. As the sector grows, ensuring gender balance in leadership positions remains paramount.  

This year’s panel moderated by AusBiotech CEO Rebekah Cassidy, will explore the challenges and opportunities for women in leadership roles. The distinguished panel includes research, policy, governance, investment, and advocacy experts:  

• Dr Saraid Billiards, CEO, Association of Australian Medical Research Institutes 
• Christine Cockburn, CEO, Rare Cancers Australia 
• Naomi Edwards FAICD, Chair, Australian Institute of Company Directors 
• Dr Terence Fitzsimmons, Managing Director, Australian Gender Equality Council 
• Dr Rebecca McQualter, CEO, Chimeric Therapeutics 
• Chris Newton, Founder, Stakeholder Capital 

AusBiotech CEO Rebekah Cassidy said, “What a privilege it is to be part of the annual Women in Life Sciences luncheon hosted by AusBiotech and Medicines Australia. Not only are we bringing together some of our country’s most influential female life science leaders and celebrating the contributions of women in our sector, but we will also recognise ongoing challenges and have data-led conversations about opportunities to accelerate action.”  

“The quality of conversation today with our distinguished panel promises to be both insightful and impactful, sparking a deeper, ongoing dialogue on the critical issues shaping the future of the sector and the opportunities for greater gender equity in leadership." 

Elizabeth de Somer Medicines Australia CEO added, “Medicines Australia is delighted to partner with AusBiotech again to host the Women in Life Sciences luncheon, where we will explore the challenges and opportunities for women in leadership roles, as well learn the importance of mentors and sponsors in accelerating action to close gender gaps across the life sciences sector.” 

“Women play a crucial role in Australia’s life sciences sector, driving groundbreaking research and innovation, and public healthcare advancements. The diverse perspectives and leadership foster more inclusive discoveries and equitable medical solutions. We must make decisive steps to achieve a more equitable and inclusive working environment.”

The 2025 WILS Luncheon promises to be an inspiring and impactful event, shining a spotlight on the women who are advancing the life sciences sector and driving change. This year, the Luncheon not only celebrates their accomplishments but also sets the stage for future actions to ensure that the next generation of women leaders can rise to new heights in the sector. 

-ENDS- 

• Emma Boscheinen, AusBiotech / 0437 075 209 / eboscheinen@ausbioch.org 
• Anne-Marie Sparrow, Medicines Australia /Cube / 0417 421 560 / media@medicinesaustralia.com.au   

About AusBiotech  

AusBiotech is Australia’s life sciences organisation, working on behalf of more than 3,000 members for more than 38 years, to provide advocacy and services that promote the global growth of the Australian life sciences industry. With our unrivalled membership breadth and national convening power, we drive the advancement of life sciences and our members’ success in translating clinical research and technologies into real-world solutions while fostering knowledge sharing and collaboration to help life sciences innovators thrive.  

About Medicines Australia 

Medicines Australia leads the research-based pharmaceutical industry of Australia. Our members discover, develop and manufacture the medicines that are the foundation of a healthy and prosperous society, including prescription pharmaceutical products, biotherapeutic products and vaccines. Our members invest in Australian medical research and take local discoveries and developments to the world. 

We are trusted partners in the medicines ecosystem, ensuring that our conduct is of the highest ethical standard, and that the environment in which we provide access to our medicines is sustainable and fair.