Victoria Becomes a Global Hub for AI-Enabled Healthcare
Optain Health is setting up its Asia-Pacific headquarters and expanding its global R&D and Engineering Hub in Melbourne. Supported by the Allan Labor Government, the move brings up to 49 new jobs and $10 million in R&D investment into Victoria.
This strengthens Victoria's position as a center for medical research, AI, and health technology. It also creates new pathways for clinical deployment of AI at scale across health services.
What Optain's Technology Delivers
Optain applies AI, robotic retinal imaging, and teleophthalmology to detect disease earlier-using a simple, non-invasive eye test. A portable robotic camera captures images and integrated AI workflows support clinical decision-making and care coordination.
- Eye conditions: diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration
- Systemic risk signals: cardiovascular risk and broader oculomic markers
This approach helps close screening gaps, reduce unnecessary referrals, and move detection closer to primary care and community settings. For context on disease burden, see the CDC's overview of diabetic retinopathy here.
Why Melbourne
Melbourne's CBD is home to 188 AI companies-around 22% of all clustered Australian AI firms-forming the nation's largest AI cluster. Optain's APAC base will deepen collaboration with Victorian universities, health services, and industry partners.
Health technologies and digital technologies are priority sectors in Victoria's Economic Growth Statement, which is focused on jobs, investment, and high-impact innovation.
What This Means for Healthcare Leaders
Earlier detection and streamlined triage can improve patient flow, especially in diabetes care, ophthalmology, cardiology, and primary care. Portable imaging plus AI fits into screening programs, retail health, aged care, and rural settings where access is limited.
- Integrate with EHRs and referral pathways for seamless follow-up
- Define protocols for image quality, thresholds, and escalation
- Plan clinician training and governance for AI-assisted decisions
- Address data security, consent, and model transparency
What's Next
Optain will expand its AI applications to improve accuracy, speed, and coverage across a wider range of conditions, advancing the field of oculomics-using the eye as a window into whole-body health. The company recently launched in the United States with backing from Insight Partners and seven major U.S. health system strategic investors.
What Leaders Are Saying
Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs Danny Pearson: "Optain's groundbreaking AI-driven technologies will improve the accessibility of healthcare-and further cement Victoria's standing as a global leader in both medical research and digital technology adoption."
"This exceptional technology was developed right here in Victoria and taken to the world, and now this APAC R&D hub will create more jobs and opportunities for locals and boost economic growth across the state."
Optain CEO Jeff Dunkel: "Melbourne offers a unique combination of world-class technology talent, proactive government support, and a proven track record of exporting breakthrough products globally. That's why we're proud to make Victoria the permanent home for our global R&D team."
Optain President Dr. Zachary Tan: "We're thrilled to be deepening our investment in Victoria's world-class AI and scientific ecosystem. As Australia makes research translation and productivity growth a national priority, we're proud to be exporting local AI innovation into global healthcare impact."
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