November 2003

$21 million for Latrobe cancer centre

The State Government has demonstrated its commitment to tackling the issue of cancer in the Latrobe Valley by announcing plans to build a new $21 million Cancer Treatment Centre at Traralgon.

Health Minister Bronwyn Pike said the creation of the centre would bring badly-needed services to the people of Latrobe Valley.

‘The new centre will include two radiotherapy bunkers, a radiotherapy machine, redeveloped and expanded chemotherapy facilities and clinic areas on the site of the Latrobe Regional Hospital.

‘As well, existing oncology specialist clinics will be relocated from a remote location at the opposite end of the site to new premises next to radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

‘The new centre is part of the Government’s four-year Cancer Action Plan that includes a $78 million expansion in radiotherapy services across Victoria.

It also forms a component of the Government’s response to the Review of the Latrobe Valley Lung Function Program.

The entire response to the review will be announced later in the year.

‘We recognise the need for better, closer access to treatment for the people of the Valley.

The State and Commonwealth governments are jointly funding the new project with Victoria contributing $11 million and $10 million coming from the Commonwealth.

Ms Pike said she had requested the Department of Human Services accelerate planning for this project and it is anticipated that it will go to tender in early 2004.

Construction could begin within the current financial year.

‘The Government is committed to ensuring the best quality of life and a healthier future for all Latrobe Valley residents and, in particular, power industry workers.

‘We are aware of the high rate of years of life lost to cancer due to asbestos exposure in the Valley and this has been considered in planning for this centre.

‘The new centre will mean many Latrobe Valley residents will not have to travel to Melbourne for their cancer treatment.’

Ms Pike paid tribute to local community leaders who have been campaigning for many years for the development of adequate cancer facilities in the Valley.