Sustainable access > shared benefits
Department of the Environment and Heritage
ISBN 0 6425 5191 X
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About the brochure
The genetic and biochemical resources of plants, animals and microorganisms have been used by humankind for centuries. Improved food production, medical advances and greater scientific knowledge are examples of the myriad benefits derived from this use of natural resources.
Today, modern biotechnology plays a vital role in this process, enabling cutting-edge research to greatly accelerate our understanding of genetic and biochemical resources.
Australia is rich in genetic and biochemical resources. Its biodiversity represents up to 10 per cent of the total biodiversity of the planet. Moreover, over 80 per cent of that biodiversity is indigenous to Australia. As such, Australia is a megadiverse country, rich in resources for use in scientific and technological research, and with potential to be developed into new and innovative commercial products.