Australia’s world leading influenza vaccine company, Seqirus – part of the CSL Group, today announced it will move into a purpose built facility inside Melbourne Airport’s Business Park, taking advantage of the airport’s ability to transport supplies 24/7.
 
Construction of the 118,000m2, $800 million facility, will commence in February next year and is expected to take approximately three years to build plus a further two years for commissioning. Once operational, the cell-based vaccine and antivenom manufacturing facility will house several hundred staff. 
 
Melbourne Airport Chief of Commercial Property, Andrew Gardiner, said securing Seqirus as a long-term tenant was a once in a lifetime opportunity. 
 
“Never before has the world been so fixated on vaccine development and we’re proud that one of the world’s premier public health protection companies is deciding to call Melbourne Airport home,” said Mr Gardiner.
 
“Seqirus is a huge acquisition for us. It really changes the face of Melbourne Airport’s Business Park and amplifies our property portfolio by putting us on the map in the medical and healthcare sector.
 
“The airport is home to four distinct property precincts featuring more than just traditional sheds and logistics. We’ve got more than 64 brands on-site ranging from URBNSURF Melbourne and Essendon Football Club to Porsche and Toll.   
 
“What really sets us apart as a property owner and developer is our ability to offer tenants round the clock access to international markets, with 24/7 security. We also provide convenient access to arterial roads, further supporting companies that need to transport goods quickly.”
 
Melbourne Airport CEO Lyell Strambi said the events of 2020 have made the airport shift focus away from traditional aviation-related revenue streams. “We’re firmly focused on expanding and diversifying our property precincts and look forward to partnering with many more quality tenants as we continue to grow the airport.”