The Office of Population Health Genomics was established in 2001 as the Genomics Directorate because of recommendations made in the HARC Report. The Office is unique in Australia and allows WA Health to respond to the advances in genetic technology. We aim:

To lead in the translation of genomics knowledge into health benefits

The Office has four Sections that work toward this:

• Epidemiology and Health Economics – evaluates the gene technology used in the health system and monitors it’s use and cost-effectiveness
• Prevention and Translation – provides information to the public to help them understand more about genomics
• Technical, Ethical and Legal Issues – new gene technology needs to be evaluated in the context of community views, ethics and the current laws
• Social and Community Research – identifies what people know, think and value about genomics and gene technology

These Sections work to:

• Translate information from genetic research to improve the health of people in WA
• Review and evaluate the use of the best available genetic technology within budget
• Promote new partnerships in population health genomics at a local, national and international level.
• Provide policy advice
• Keep people informed
• Collaborate with groups that have an interest in genetics, genomics and gene technology
• Ensure that we do this in a way that is consistent with the ethical, legal and cost-effective community needs