A new research centre is coming to Canberra Region Cancer Centre as part of an integrated site to deliver treatment, research, supportive therapies and emotional support all in the one place.
Designs of the 449sqm fit-out will be unveiled today, adding to the modernised cancer precinct and delivering state-of-the-art clinical care to patients in the ACT and surrounding region.
Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said the research centre, a 2020 election commitment, will bring together the knowledge and expertise of academics, clinicians, industry and health professionals in a collaborative, purpose-built facility.
“The cancer research centre will be an innovative hub for new research and knowledge translation to support cutting edge cancer treatment and strengthen the quality of care for our patients,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.
“The centre will also help to attract and recruit specialist clinicians and academics, enabling access to specialist research through partnerships with organisations such as the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, ANU/John Curtin Medical School, University of Canberra and the Garvan Institute.”
The facility will integrate a research laboratory into a clinic space where patients are assessed for clinical trials, alongside the ability for sample collection to be seamlessly coordinated with lab technicians to process samples or store them in appropriate cooling facilities until ready.
“The co-location of cancer clinical trials staff into the centre will encourage strong collaboration between clinicians and scientists, ensuring the growth of clinical trials in the ACT.
“Most importantly, the project will allow the dedicated team to translate research-generated evidence into clinical practice and improve the quality of cancer research and treatment in the ACT.
“The cancer research centre is another example of the ACT Government’s commitment to deliver patient-centred care in high quality, modern facilities,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.
The $7.045 million cancer research centre is part of an $828 million investment in health infrastructure announced in last year’s Budget, delivering expanded facilities, better community health infrastructure and new state-of-the-art equipment to ensure Canberrans and those from surrounding regions continue to receive quality health care.
Construction of the cancer research centre is scheduled to start in late 2023 and be completed in late 2024.
