Greg Hunt on negotiating deals for vaccine manufacturing licences

The Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt says negotiations to secure licencing agreements to manufacture COVID-19 vaccines are “highly advanced.”

Speaking on Sky News, Mr Hunt wouldn’t reveal the details of discussion, but said Australia was “well-placed” to be able to produce vaccines should current trials underway prove successful.

“We have signed two non-disclosure agreements, so by definition that means that they’re pre-contractual and we’re precluded from referring to individual companies.”

“But we are working with the most advanced vaccines in Australia and around the world.” 

Leading research includes trials being run by the University of Queensland and the University of Oxford.

Mr Hunt believes its possible multiple vaccines under development will prove to be successful in inoculating against COVID-19.

“For the first time, I feel cautiously – but genuinely – optimistic about the prospects of a vaccine,” he said.
              

Reporting by Melissa Clarke.