Australia's Defense Science and Technology Organization has broken ground for an upgraded defense science research facility in the State of Victoria.

The purpose-built facility in Melbourne will be pivotal in "achieving an enhanced protective capability against life-threatening diseases and toxic materials," according to Assistant Minister for Defense Stuart Robert at a ground-breaking ceremony.

"Defense demand for scientific support has increased considerably in recent years and DSTO requires modern and expanded facilities to meet the challenges associated with developing new technologies," he said.

"This upgrade project will give DSTO access to state-of-the-art research facilities to support Defense and our national security agencies, particularly in countering chemical, biological and radiological threats."

The facility is being built Cockram Constructions Pty Ltd. at a cost of about $37 million and is expected to be completed in 2016.

Australia is part of an initiative involving the United States, Britain and Canada to manage the consequences of pandemics, emerging infectious diseases and incidents involving chemical, biological and radiological threats. In Australia, the effort is called the Medical Countermeasures Products initiative.

"The Government supports the Medical Countermeasures Products Australia initiative as it represents a partnership between the public and private sector to build an effective capability in medical counter-measures that will benefit both the civilian and military sectors," Robert said.