NSW announces translational cancer research boost

Cancer research is set to receive a substantial boost due to a new allotment from the NSW government. The additional funding should ensure a higher level of patient care.

The funding was announced June 3 2014 by Health Minister and Medical Research Minister Jillian Skinner, who stated that the $19.3 million for three new cancer research centres would translate directly into benefits for patients.

"I am proud this investment of $19.3 million by the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government will ensure our state continues to lead the way in improving outcomes for people diagnosed with cancer," Mrs Skinner said.

"It is vital we ensure benchtop research meets the bedside needs of people affected by cancer in NSW."

The centres are planned to bring researchers and clinicians together from Local Health Districts to work together on cancer programs. For such a dangerous disease, collaborative research is essential. This focus within NSW should accelerate the benefits for patients over the next few years.

Funding has been assigned for the next five years, being allocated to the Hunter Cancer Research Alliance, the Centre for Oncology Education and Research Translation and the Northern Translational Cancer Research Centre.

Continued research is vital to the understanding of the disease, and will likely remain a primary focus of government health initiatives.

"Cancer is not one disease but many different diseases. By uniting researchers through this Translational Cancer Research Program, we are giving NSW the best chance to understand how different cancers work and develop targeted new treatments," Professor David Currow said.

This research is just one allotment of over $200 million invested in NSW alone every year. A focus on medical research is especially important for the longevity and quality of life of all Australians.