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Minister says go casual for genetic research

Australians are urged today to pull on their favourite jeans to support crucial genetic research on Jeans for Genes Day, said Federal Minister for Health and Ageing, Senator Kay Patterson.

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1 August 2003

Minister says go casual for genetic research

Australians are urged today to pull on their favourite jeans to support crucial genetic research on Jeans for Genes Day, said Federal Minister for Health and Ageing, Senator Kay Patterson.

"By wearing our favourite jeans and giving a gold coin donation, or by buying a badge, we can help guarantee long-term support for important research projects into human gene disorders," Senator Patterson said.

"One in twenty children world-wide are born with genetic disorders, and the money raised from Jeans for Genes Day will contribute to research to prevent these conditions."

Jeans for Genes Day is the major fundraising event of the Children's Medical Research Institute (CMRI) and this year it is celebrating its 10th anniversary.

"Over the past 10 years, Australians have raised over $23 million for genetic research through Jeans for Genes Day, and these funds will help prevent more of our children being born with these disorders," Senator Patterson said.

Research underway in Australia is aimed at developing new ways to diagnose, treat, cure, and prevent disease. In 2003, the Australian Government, through the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), has awarded more than $21 million in research grants to 52 projects throughout Australia in the area of genetic research and gene technology.

"As a result of research funded through the NHMRC and funds raised by the Children's Medical Research Institute our knowledge of genetic diseases is rapidly developing," Senator Patterson said.

Human gene patents also raises important issues that have been of concern to various groups within the community. This is an important area given the rapid advances in human genome research and genetic and related technologies.

"In response to these concerns, late last year the Government released the terms of reference of an Australian Law Reform Commission inquiry into the issues raised by intellectual property over genetic information," Senator Patterson said.

The inquiry will examine the impact of current patenting laws, practices and the application and commercialisation of genetic research. It will also examine the effect these issues have on the Australian biotechnology sector and Australia's health care system. The inquiry will involve widespread consultation with the public and key stakeholders. The ALRC has recently released an issues paper which is available at www.alrc.gov.au

"So, get into your jeans today, give a gold coin donation, and help guarantee research into this vital area which is effecting many children in Australia and worldwide," said Senator Patterson.

Media inquiries: Randal Markey, Media Adviser, Senator Patterson's office, 02 6277 7220.