Barrett has two decades’ experience in the manufacturing sector, as well as extensive experience in international market strategy and business development.

The Government put in $750,000 over three years to establish the MedDev Alliance, formed to build the state’s reputation in the global medical device sector.

Manufacturing and Innovation Minister Kyam Maher said Barrett’s global experience should deliver major benefits for the alliance’s work.

“One of Mr Barrett’s first jobs will be to engage with the local medical device industry to assess the potential for growth and new market opportunities,” Maher said.

“The State Government has identified the expansion of the medical device manufacturing sector as an important priority because it has the potential to boost economic activity and create jobs,” he said.

Richard Barrett

“An ageing population in Australia and around the world, along with better access to healthcare infrastructure in the developing world, has increased demand for medical devices and technologies.

“Our state already has an international reputation for medical device inventions, with Australia’s medical technologies acknowledged as being of the highest best-practice, quality, and ethical standard.

“While our share of the international medical device market is currently relatively small, we have an excellent opportunity to leverage our capabilities and reputation for greater export growth.”