AGRF: Setting a New Standard for Genomic Sequencing in Australia

Media Release

Joe Baini (Ceo) and Simon Giuliano (Illumina) with the NovaSeq X Plus.

Australian Genome Research Facility (AGRF) has expanded its state-of-the-art genomic sequencing line-up with the arrival of Illumina’s most powerful sequencing instrument to-date, the NovaSeq™ X Plus. AGRF is Australia’s premier genomics service provider, proudly supporting the genomics community in Australia and beyond for the past 25 years.

“We continue to provide access to cutting edge technology for our clients and partners and are thrilled to be the first in Australia and amongst the first in the world to introduce this incredible system” says AGRF Chief Executive Officer, Joe Baini.

The arrival of the NovaSeq X Plus represents an important milestone for genomics in Australia and sets a new standard in sequencing. Located at the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre (VCCC), the instrument will help revolutionise the detection and diagnosis of diseases such as cancer and other rare genetic diseases. It will also have an impact on reducing the time between treatment decisions and translating research into more meaningful outcomes. 

First in the ANZ region, the system paves the way to deliver unprecedented high throughput genomic sequencing at speed and accuracy, giving the ability to scale up with demand.

Simon Giuliano, Illumina’s Commercial Lead Oceania, reflects on the partnership with AGRF. “AGRF has always been early adopters of our Next Generation Sequencing technologies. The AGRF team share our passion for innovation and enabling access to genomics platforms for our scientific community.

We continue to work closely with AGRF to unlock the potential of genomics in areas as diverse as Human Health, Agriculture and Environmental Science and we feel fortunate to work together with such a progressive organisation.”

With significant improvements in workflow design and data quality, a very excited Dr Cath Moore, Chief Scientific Officer at AGRF is delighted at the arrival of the instrument. “Beyond its biomedical importance, the sequencer also has applications in the environmental and agricultural industries providing advanced genomics for selective breeding and predictive tools”.

AGRF wishes to acknowledge the National Collaboration Research Infrastructure Scheme (NCRIS) and Bioplatforms Australia (BPA) for supporting the acquisition of the NovaSeq X Plus system.

L-R: Joe Baini (CEO), Jessica Poy (CCO) and Dr Chris Noune (National NGS Manager) with the NovaSeq X Plus

About AGRF:

AGRF is a not-for-profit organisation, powering Australian genomics through a national network of genomic services and expertise. As Australia’s premier provider of genomic services, AGRF is a key contributor to genomic innovation and development, providing local access to expertise, state-of-the-art technology and comprehensive support across a broad range of industries including biomedical, health, agriculture and environmental sectors. To learn more about AGRF, visit our home page.

About Illumina:

Illumina is improving human health by unlocking the power of the genome. Its focus on innovation has established them as a global leader in DNA sequencing and array-based technologies, serving customers in the research, clinical, and applied markets. Illumina’s products are used for applications in the life sciences, oncology, reproductive health, agriculture, and other emerging segments. To learn more, visit illumina.com