The platypus could hold the key to a medical breakthrough in the treatment of drug-resistant superbugs.

Scientists from the Victorian Department of Primary Industries (DPI) have discovered the platypus has several naturally occurring anti-microbial proteins which are 10 times more potent than those currently used in medical treatment.

Anti-microbial proteins are substances similar to antiseptics which can be used to kill off bacteria.

Medical research has been struggling to develop new treatments for superbugs which are rapidly developing resistance to both traditional and new medical treatments.

The scientists believe the discovery could be the breakthrough needed to create a new range of natural medicines and treatments for antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections.

In announcing the discovery, the Victorian Minister for Agriculture, Joe Helper, says the discovery could have benefits for the treatment of hospital patients.

"If we can harness some of this potential we could better protect patients from superbugs, meaning they will recover from surgery faster and spend less time in hospital," he said.

DPI deputy secretary Dr Bruce Kefford says scientists have been investigating how animals have adapted to the harsh Australian climate for several years.

"The scientists were initially investigating the tammar wallaby and discovered some anti-microbial traits. This raised their curiosity and so they turned their attention to the platypus," he said.

"After finding the platypus had similar DNA traits to the wallaby they decided to reproduce a number of its proteins in the lab. This led to the discovery of two extremely potent anti-microbes."

Dr Kefford says the unique conditions in Australia could mean this is the only place in the world where they are found.

It will be a number of years before the discovery can be used in the treatment of humans, but the DPI has plans to use it in veterinary science.

They aim to introduce the protein to cattle to control the microbes that exist in their stomachs and guts to improve digestion and reduce methane production.