The Allan Labor Government must today commit to reversing its cruel 75 per cent funding cut to the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre (VCCC).
The VCCC is Victoria’s leading cancer research centre, and this cut will impact initiatives including a research program to treat liver cancer and hepatitis B, a platform that allows researchers to access detailed cancer data throughout a patient’s journey and an education program that upskills medical practitioners working with cancer patients.
With a growing and ageing population, the number of Victorians diagnosed with cancer is expected to increase from approximately 35,000 in 2022 to more than 50,000 by 2030.
These cuts come as the State Budget confirmed Victoria’s record debt will grow to $187.8 billion by 2028, with daily interest repayments to reach almost $26 million a day over this same period.
Shadow Minister for Health, Georgie Crozier, said: “Labor’s priorities are all wrong. Whilst pressing ahead with a $216 billion train line, Labor is cutting 75 per cent of vital cancer research funding.
“This cruel cut will slash vital cancer research programs, lead to a loss of jobs and impact support for patients at a time when more Victorians are anticipated to be diagnosed with cancer.
“Victorians deserve better, and the Allan Labor Government must today commit to reversing this cruel cut.
“Labor cannot manage money and Victorians are paying the price.”
