Jess Wilson pledges $10.4m for proton cancer therapy at Peter MacCallum
Liberal leader Jess Wilson commits $10.4 million to build proton therapy at Melbourne's cancer hospital if elected.
Victoria's Opposition Leader Jess Wilson announced $10.4 million in funding for proton beam therapy at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. The pledge brings advanced cancer treatment to Australia.
The announcement comes ahead of November's state election. Peter MacCallum is asking $10.4 million each from the Victorian and Federal Governments.
It also seeks $10 million from hospital foundations. Proton therapy uses targeted radiation.
It does less damage to healthy tissue around tumours. This is especially important for young children still growing.
The announcement follows reports of Australian children who travelled overseas for treatment. Adelaide's proton therapy project failed.
Federal Health Minister Mark Butler is looking at proposals from both Adelaide and Melbourne. Australia could have two therapy centres.
- 10.4 million dollars
- Wilson's pledge
- 10 million dollars
- From hospital foundations
- November
- State election timing
- Three years old
- Polly's age at diagnosis
Why it mattersProton therapy could end the need for seriously ill Australian children to travel overseas for life-saving cancer treatment.
AustraliaIf established, Australia would finally offer proton therapy domestically, keeping sick children at home and saving families the cost and trauma of overseas care.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 h ago
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