Life Sciences Real Estate Summit

4 September, 2025 | Doltone House Hyde Park, Sydney

Investment, development, construction and design strategies for Australia’s Life Sciences sector

The life sciences sector is at the forefront of Australia’s innovation economy. As investment into the sector increases, the demand for real estate that supports research, discovery, and commercialisation continues to surge. As biotech, pharma, medtech and the wider life science R&D sphere scales up, the need for specialised facilities—from research labs to advanced manufacturing hubs—is greater than ever.

The Life Sciences Real Estate Summit is dedicated to uncovering the fast growing and evolving landscape of life science real estate. Bringing together investors, developers, operators, and occupiers, this Summit will deliver critical insights into life science facilities investment, development, design, construction, sales & leasing.

Through expert-led discussions, case studies, and networking opportunities, you will gain a deep understanding of how to navigate and capitalise on this growing asset class. Whether you’re a developer, investor, occupier, or policymaker, this event will equip you with the insights, strategies, and connections needed to bulletproof your life sciences real estate strategy.

Join us to connect with industry leaders and gain the strategic knowledge needed to thrive in Australia’s life science real estate market.

CONFERENCE PROGRAM

30+ speakers, real world case-studies, interactive panel discussions, innovation talks and more

INNOVATION SHOWCASE

Exhibition showcasing the latest plan, design, construct, fit-out and related solutions for life sciences real estate

NETWORKING + MEET & GREETS

Participate in both informal and structured networking activities where you can find customers & partners

ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSIONS

Join talks with industry peers. Share ideas, make connections, and find new partners.

Summit will start in...

Meet Our Speakers

Dr. Kate Meyrick

Director, Urbis

Bart Price

CEO, Vita Partners

Trent Munro

Strategic Advisor, Boggo Road Innovation Precinct

Alex Belcastro

Senior VP – Development & Precincts, Northwest Healthcare Properties REIT

Tag Yuxiang

Principal, Warburg Pincus

Justin Gabbani

CEO, Lendlease IM

Hannah Loxton

Head of Private Capital, Wentworth Capital

Nick Smith

Co-Founder & CEO, Kurraba

Dr. Ashlie Hartigan

Associate - Science & Innovation, Wentworth Capital

Russell Meacham

Managing Director, JGS Advisory

KEY THEMES

The Life Sciences Real Estate Summit will bring together senior leaders to discuss the following topics:

The State of Life Science Real Estate in Australia

The life sciences sector is rapidly expanding in Australia, creating new opportunities and challenges for real estate developers and investors. The Summit will provide a comprehensive market overview, covering the latest investment trends, tenant demand shifts, and the impact of government policies. Learn how Australia compares to global markets and what factors will drive the future of life science real estate development.

Regulatory, Planning & Compliance Considerations

Developing life science real estate comes with unique regulatory challenges, from zoning restrictions to biosafety and GMP certification requirements. Hear insights into navigating complex approval processes and ensuring compliance at every stage of development. Experts will discuss how regulatory frameworks impact facility design and leasing agreements, helping developers and investors avoid costly delays and setbacks.

Investment Strategies & Capital Markets

Life science real estate is emerging as an attractive alternate asset class, but where do the real opportunities lie and how is capital moving into the sector? This session will look to explore the financial models and capital strategies driving the sector, from private equity and REITs to public-private partnerships. Learn how to evaluate risk, structure deals, and capitalise on the growing investor appetite for high-tech lab and biotech spaces.

The Role of Sustainability & ESG in Life Science Real Estate

Sustainability and ESG principles are increasingly shaping real estate decisions in the life science sector. Across the Summit stakeholders will explore how developers and occupiers are integrating green building standards, renewable energy solutions, and responsible waste management into their facilities. Learn how sustainable design not only meets regulatory requirements but also enhances asset value and tenant appeal.

Designing for Science: Creating Fit-for-Purpose Facilities

Life science facilities require highly specialised designs to accommodate R&D, lab work, advanced manufacturing and more. This session will explore the critical infrastructure considerations for building state-of-the-art life science spaces. From modular lab design to energy-efficient HVAC systems and biosafety compliance, experts will discuss how to create adaptable and future-proofed facilities that meet the evolving needs of tenants and researchers.

From Concept to Occupation: The Leasing & Operational Challenge

Life science tenants have highly specific operational needs, making leasing and facility management complex. Explore and uncover how to structure lease agreements, balance flexibility with long-term commitments, and ensure facilities remain fit-for-purpose over time. Developers, landlords, and tenants will share their experiences in managing life science assets and creating spaces that support innovation at every stage.

Life Science Precincts & Innovation Clusters

The rise of life science precincts is transforming how research, commercialisation, and collaboration happen in Australia. The Summit will examine successful case studies of innovation districts that bring together universities, hospitals, startups, and major biotech firms. Discover the key elements that make these precincts thrive, including location selection, funding structures, and industry partnerships.

The Future of Life Science Real Estate in Australia

What does the future hold for life science real estate in Australia? This forward-looking session will provide expert predictions on where the market is heading, including emerging trends in tenant demand, technological advancements, and government initiatives. Gain strategic insights into how to stay competitive in this evolving sector and position your projects for long-term success.

WHO ATTENDS?

  • Operators & Owners
  • Developers
  • Investors
  • Government
  • Leasing, Sales & Marketing Specialists
  • Architectural & Engineering Firms
  • Construction Firms & Specialist Contractors
  • Technology providers
  • Scientific Infrastructure Suppliers
  • Legal Firms & Consultants
  • Real Estate Professionals
  • Laboratory Design & Fit Out Providers

WHO SHOULD PARTNER?

If you are involved in the following areas, our attendees would like to hear from you:

  • Architects/Designers
  • Lab Infrastructure & Design
  • Urban Planning
  • Construction & Fit-out
  • Modular/Pre-Fab solutions
  • Sales & Leasing specialists
  • Valuation specialists
  • Engineering consultants
  • ESG/Sustainability solutions
  • Smart Building Tech
  • Access Management
  • Facilities Management
  • Security solutions
  • Legal Firms
  • Parking solutions
book by 20 june 2025 to get 25% off

Register Early and Save

$820 + GST

Virtual Ticket
  • Access to conference streamed sessions

  • Session recordings and presentation slides

  • No access to interactive round table and networking sessions

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$1195 + GST

In-person Ticket
  • Access to all conference sessions

  • Session recordings and presentation slides

  • Access to interactive round table and networking sessions

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Agenda

Thursday | 4th September 2025

08:00

Registration & Morning Refreshments

09:00

OPENING REMARKS

Fergus Cunningham, Event Director, FuturePlace
09:05

CHAIR'S OPENING ADDRESS

Dr. Kate Meyrick, Director, Urbis

SHAPING THE FUTURE: THE OUTLOOK FOR LIFE SCIENCE REAL ESTATE

09:15

KEYNOTE PRESENTATION | The Rise of Life Sciences in Australia

Australia is emerging as a key player in the global life sciences sector, with rapid growth driven by research innovation, government support, and an increasing demand for specialised real estate. Explore how Australia’s life science ecosystem is expanding, how developers and investors can capitalise on emerging opportunities, and better understand the key factors that will shape the future of life science real estate in the region. Attendees will gain insights into the unique challenges and opportunities in Australia’s life science real estate market and learn how to position themselves for success.

  • Australia’s Life Science Ecosystem: Understanding the rapid growth of Australia’s life science sector and how it is positioning itself as a hub for innovation and investment.
  • Real Estate Opportunities & Challenges: Identifying the key real estate opportunities for developers and investors in the life sciences sector, and the unique challenges that need to be addressed.
  • Government Support & Policy Impact: The role of government incentives, grants, and regulatory reforms in driving growth within the life science real estate market in Australia
Bart Price, CEO, Vita Partners
09:40

CASE STUDY | Queensland’s Knowledge Corridor & Boggo Road Innovation Precinct: Delivering the Future Knowledge Economy

Queensland has a long history and science driven innovation and the next phase of this journey is the evolution of the Knowledge Corridor and opportunities at the Boggo Road Precinct which will play a critical role in shaping the state’s future as a magnetic for the innovation driven economy. This presentation will explore how these developments are fostering collaboration between researchers, industry, and investors, creating a thriving ecosystem for new solutions across, the health of people. Health of the planet and emerging technologies.

  • The Knowledge Corridor & Boggo Road Precinct: How this evolving precinct is positioning Queensland as a leader in the innovation ecosystem, and what it means for research, commercialisation, and industry collaboration.
  • The Role of Real Estate in Life Science Growth: The infrastructure, design, and investment required to support cutting-edge biotech, medtech, and advanced manufacturing within the precinct.
  • Opportunities for Developers & Investors: How the private sector can engage with Queensland’s life science expansion, and what’s needed to ensure long-term success for real estate projects in this space
Trent Munro, Strategic Advisor, Boggo Road Innovation Precinct
10:00

INDUSTRY LEADERS PANEL | Building the Future of Life Science Real Estate: Key Strategies for Investment, Innovation, Growth & Collaboration

As Australia’s life science sector expands, the demand for purpose-built real estate is accelerating, creating new opportunities for investors, developers, and industry stakeholders. This panel will explore the critical strategies needed to develop world-class life science precincts. Experts will discuss how to unlock real estate potential, navigate policy and regulatory landscapes, and foster collaboration between key players to drive long-term growth.

  • Creating Integrated Life Science Precincts: How successful projects are blending research, clinical care, manufacturing, and commercialisation to drive innovation and attract investment.
  • Unlocking Real Estate Potential: Exploring key investment and development opportunities in life sciences real estate while addressing the sector’s unique challenges.
  • Policy & Government Influence: Examining how incentives, grants, and regulatory frameworks shape the growth and competitiveness of Australia’s life science real estate market.
  • Collaboration & Global Best Practices: The importance of fostering collaboration between universities, hospitals, developers, and investors, and the role of studying international life science hubs to shape Australia’s future.
Alex Belcastro, Senior VP – Development & Precincts, Northwest Healthcare Properties REIT
Yue (Olivia) Geng, Executive Director – Strategic Partnerships & Innovation, Altea Investments
Nick Smith, Co-Founder & CEO, Kurraba
Neil Deacon, Founder & Managing Director, Health Advance Connect
10:40

Morning Refreshments & Networking Break

11:20

INTERACTIVE ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSIONS

Join industry leaders and innovators in the life science sector as we tackle some of the most pressing challenges and exciting opportunities facing the industry today. In this interactive session, you can choose a focus group that aligns with your interests, allowing for deeper engagement on topics that matter most to you. Don’t miss this chance to connect, collaborate, and innovate with peers in a supportive environment!

Roundtable 1:              The Rise of Health Innovation Precincts in Australia

                                       Moderated by: Lance Chia, Director Investment & Innovation, Liverpool Innovation Precinct

Roundtable 2:               The Future of Lab Space & Biotech Incubators

                                       Moderated by: Andrew Gray, Co-Founder, CoLabs Australia

Roundtable 3:               Investment Trends in Life Science Real Estate

Roundtable 4:               Partnerships Between Developers, Government & Research Institutions

Roundtable 5:               ESG & Sustainability in Life Science Real Estate

Roundtable 6:               Life Science 101: Understanding the Tenant Perspective

Lance Chia, Director - Investment & Innovation, Liverpool Innovation Precinct
Andrew Gray, Director, CoLabs Australia

FOLLOW THE MONEY: KEY TRENDS IN LIFE SCIENCE CAPITAL FLOW & TRANSACTIONS

12:00

PANEL SESSION | Opportunity, Risk and the Role of Institutional Capital

As traditional commercial real estate faces market fluctuations, life science real estate has emerged as a resilient and high-growth asset class. Investors are increasingly allocating capital to this sector, drawn by its long-term leases, strong tenant retention, and premium rental rates. This session will explore the current and future investment appetite for life science assets, dissect the financial fundamentals driving returns, and examine how institutional investors, private equity, and superannuation funds are approaching the sector. Panelists will discuss the barriers to entry for new investors, how offshore capital is shaping the market, and strategies to mitigate risk in an evolving investment landscape.

  • Market Landscape & Investor Confidence: Understanding current market conditions, demand drivers, and financial fundamentals shaping life science real estate.
  • Private & Institutional Capital: The growing role of private investors, superannuation funds, and offshore capital in funding life science developments.
  • Emerging Trends & Market Forces: The impact of inflation, interest rates, and construction costs on investment returns, rent affordability, and precinct development.
  • Tenant Demand & Occupier Needs: Examining what life science companies require from real estate, how demand is evolving across R&D, manufacturing, and logistics, and what investors should consider when structuring assets to meet occupier needs.
Panelists include:
Tag Yuxiang, Principal, Warburg Pincus
Justin Gabbani, CEO, Lendlease IM
Hannah Loxton, Head of Private Capital, Wentworth Capital
Russell Meacham, Managing Director, JGS Advisory
12:40

Lunch & Networking Break

BLUEPRINT FOR SUCCESS: BUILDING A THRIVING LIFE SCIENCE ECOSYSTEM IN AUSTRALIA

13:40

PANEL SESSION | Real Estate Needs Across the Development Cycle – What Occupiers Want & How to Deliver it

The success of life science real estate depends on a deep understanding of what occupiers need at every stage of their growth journey—from startups in incubators to global pharmaceutical firms scaling up advanced manufacturing. This panel will explore the range of real estate solutions required by life science companies, including wet and dry labs, R&D hubs, biomanufacturing plants, logistics and cold storage facilities, corporate offices, and innovation precincts. Experts will discuss how occupier needs evolve as companies move from early-stage research to full-scale production and commercialisation, and what developers, investors, and landlords must consider to deliver facilities that attract and retain tenants. The conversation will also address how to design flexible, future-proofed real estate solutions that can support the sector’s rapid innovation and changing demands.

  • Understanding Occupier Needs at Each Stage of Growth: How startups, scale-ups, and established life science companies have different real estate requirements across R&D, clinical trials, manufacturing, and commercialisation.
  • The Full Spectrum of Life Science Real Estate: Exploring the role of labs, R&D spaces, manufacturing plants, logistics hubs, corporate offices, and science precincts in the ecosystem.
  • Flexibility & Future-Proofing Facilities: How design, leasing models, and infrastructure planning can support long-term tenant success and adapt to the evolving needs of the sector.
Panelists include:
Dr. Ashlie Hartigan, Associate - Science & Innovation, Wentworth Capital
Georgie Huxley, Vice President – Leasing, Northwest Healthcare Properties REIT
Samuel Jesuadian, COO, Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Hub
14:20

INNOVATION SPOTLIGHT | Innovation in Life Science Real Estate

The life science real estate sector is being transformed by technological advancements, smart building design, and cutting-edge operational strategies. In this dynamic rapid-fire session, five forward-thinking companies will showcase their innovative approaches to developing and managing life science facilities, from high-tech lab environments to AI-driven building automation and sustainable infrastructure solutions. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the latest trends shaping the sector, including flexible lab design, energy-efficient research facilities, and the integration of digital health technologies into the built environment. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore groundbreaking solutions and connect with industry leaders driving the future of life science real estate.

Talk 1: Smart Lab Infrastructure – Leveraging AI & Automation for R&D Spaces

Talk 2: Sustainable Life Science Precincts – Designing Energy-Efficient & ESG-Compliant Facilities

Talk 3: The Role of Digital Health & IoT in Future-Ready Research Hubs

Talk 4: Adaptive Reuse & Modular Construction – Creating Scalable Life Science Spaces

15:00

Afternoon Refreshments & Networking Break

FUTURE-PROOFING LIFE SCIENCE INFRASTRUCTURE: STRATEGIES FOR LONG-TERM GROWTH & INNOVATION

15:30

Place-Based Innovation Centres: Catalysing Australia’s R&D Commercialisation Through Precinct Development

As Australia seeks to lift its global competitiveness in research and development, the opportunity for place-based innovation centres to drive commercial outcomes has never been greater. Drawing on the success of the ARM Hub and global models like the UK Catapult and Manufacturing USA Institutes, this session explores how strategically located innovation centres—co-located within precincts—can de-risk commercialisation, accelerate advanced manufacturing, and enhance property asset value by anchoring vibrant ecosystems. The model offers real estate developers a blueprint for attracting high-impact tenants, activating precinct infrastructure, and aligning with sovereign capability priorities.

  • Innovation Precincts as Value Multipliers: Place-based innovation centres increase tenant demand and retention by creating high-impact environments that embed R&D, manufacturing, and commercialisation capabilities in one location.
  • De-Risking R&D for Industry: These centres offer agile, industry-led access points to research and prototyping, attracting startups, SMEs and corporates seeking innovation partnerships without the administrative complexity of traditional institutions.
  • Global Blueprint, Local Advantage: Aligned with successful international models, Australian precincts that integrate independent innovation hubs become magnets for investment, advanced industries, and workforce development—unlocking long-term precinct value and regional economic growth.
Samuel Jesuadian, COO, Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Hub
15:50

PANEL SESSION | The Rise of Life Science Precincts: Designing for Partnerships & Growth

Life science precincts are becoming essential hubs for fostering research, innovation, and commercialisation in Australia’s biotech, medtech, and pharmaceutical sectors. These precincts bring together industry, academia, and government to drive scientific discovery and economic growth. But what makes a great life science precinct? This panel will explore the critical elements of a thriving precinct—from strategic location selection and infrastructure planning to the partnerships that enable success. Experts will also examine the role of flexible facility design in supporting the evolving needs of life science companies while ensuring compliance with Australia’s regulatory landscape.

  • The Role of Precincts in the Future of Life Sciences: Why life science precincts are critical to the long-term growth and global competitiveness of the sector in Australia.
  • What Makes a Successful Life Science Precinct? Examining the key factors that define a world-class precinct, including connectivity, amenities, funding models, and industry-academia collaboration.
  • Designing for Innovation & Flexibility: How the principles of modularity, adaptability, and regulatory compliance influence precinct-wide planning and individual facility design.
  • Strategic Partnerships & Ecosystem Building: The role of developers, research institutions, government, and private industry in creating precincts that support early-stage R&D through to commercial-scale manufacturing.
  • Overcoming Development & Infrastructure Challenges: Addressing barriers such as zoning restrictions, funding complexities, and the integration of sustainability and ESG principles into large-scale life science hubs.
Panelists include:
Lucas Litewka, Director, University of the Sunshine Coast
Andrew Gray, Director, CoLabs Australia
Stephanie Wood, Senior Program Manager, Sydney Biomedical Accelerator
Kevin Pfleger, Director Biomedical & Health Innovation, WA Life Sciences Innovation Hub
Moderated by:
Dr. Kate Meyrick, Director, Urbis
16:30

INDUSTRY LEADER FIRESIDE CHAT | Future Proofing Life Science Real Estate

As biotech, medtech, and digital health evolve at an unprecedented pace, life science real estate must be built to adapt. Facilities designed today need to support future technological advancements, shifting tenant requirements, and sustainability standards. This panel will explore emerging investment opportunities, next-generation facility design, and the role of AI, automation, and ESG in shaping the future of life science real estate. The conversation will discuss how flexible infrastructure, smart building technologies, and resilient design strategies can ensure facilities remain competitive, efficient, and aligned with evolving industry needs. The conversation will also address where Australia’s next major life science hubs are emerging and how developers can position themselves for long-term success.

  • Emerging Investment Opportunities: Identifying high-growth segments within life science real estate and new funding models driving innovation.
  • Technology & Facility Design: Exploring how AI, automation, and digital health advancements will redefine research environments, lab functionality, and tenant expectations.
  • Next-Gen Life Science Hubs: Examining which Australian regions are poised for life science sector expansion and how developers and investors can capitalise on this growth
John Ratcliffe, CIO, Altea Investments
16:50

CHAIR'S CLOSING REMARKS

In this panel discussion, we explore the key themes surrounding the introduction of innovative technologies that are shaping the future of the workplace. Join as our expert panellists outline how to make the most out of technology in the new age.Join as our expert panellists outline some key industry trends and opportunities. 

  • Explore how workplace technology can be utilised to create a more engaging and satisfying work experiences for employees by including user-friendly interfaces and digital platforms that foster engagement and productivity 
  • Discuss the challenges of resource management and the transformative role of technology in optimising workflows, allocating resources, and enhanced operational efficiency 
  • Explore how technological innovation, including the adoption of AI, IoT, and automation are reshaping work processes, driving innovation, and positioning organisations for optimal success in the future 
  • Addressing the key challenges related to skill gaps, continuous learning, and adaptation. 
  • Ensuring organisations remain agile and competitive in an ever-changing digital environment 
Dr. Kate Meyrick, Director, Urbis
17:00

Networking Drinks Reception

18:00

Close of Summit

REwork 2023 by the numbers

2 day in-person and virtual event

SENIORITY LEVEL

C-level
20%
VP & Director
40%
Heads of/Managers
30%
Other
10%

ROLE/RESPONSIBILITY

Workplace Strategy/Experience
40%
People & Culture
20%
Real Estate/Property
20%
Executive Management
10%
Digital Technology
10%

Why Become A Partner?

The Life Sciences Real Estate Summit presents unique annual opportunities across a number of channels, all designed to deliver business development and leadership opportunities.

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Thought Leadership Presentations

Establish pre-eminence amongst your peers

Branding And Signage

Multiple opportunities exist before, during and after the event

Roundtable Hosting

Lead a roundtable of industry professionals in this powerful, interactive format

Networking

Impress the world with your team and hospitality

Lead Generation

New business opportunities from a highly targeted audience

Showcase

The exhibition is the place to showcase and build new business connections

BENEFITS OF ATTENDING

The REwork APAC Summit is a Hybrid event. This format combines the traditional face-to-face conference with virtual elements, allowing both in-person and virtual attendees to access the same content and networking opportunities simultaneously.

High quality curated content

With expert sessions and industry leading speakers, delve into expertly curated content that you won’t find anywhere else.

Live and on-demand

Wherever you are at the time of the event, you’ll be in control. You’ll have the ability to consume all the content being delivered at your leisure through either a live stream of the physical event or on-demand.

Time efficient

If you are based outside of Sydney and for whatever reason can’t make it to the event in-person, you can save on travel time and accommodation costs while still networking with global industry professionals.

Business matchmaking live

Take part in intelligently curated meetings with like-minded individuals that share similar interests and challenges from all over the world through our AI powered matchmaking delivered via our virtual platform.

Accessible from all your devices

Get insights and network at your fingertips – all content sessions and networking activities will be accessible from your laptop, tablets or mobile devices.

Engage, interact and influence

Make the most of your experience by being a truly active participant. Whether at the event or attending virtually, you’ll have the ability to ask questions, participate in polls, and share your experience with other attendees via break-out sessions.

Get Directions to the Event

  • Venue

    Doltone House, Hyde Park

  • Address

    3/181 Elizabeth St, Sydney NSW 2000

  • Get Directions
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