World class Queensland Cancer Centre in record budget

A brand new world class stand alone cancer hospital will be built in Brisbane as part of this year’s record health budget.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the $750 million Queensland Cancer Centre would add Queensland to the best cancer care centres of the world.

“Whether it’s a friend, a relative or a colleague – every Queenslander knows someone who has battled cancer,” the Premier said.

“There are approximately 31,000 cancer diagnoses and over 9,400 deaths in Queensland each year.

“This new hospital will ensure Queenslanders have access to cutting-edge technologies, the latest treatments and world-leading facilities to give our patients the best possible chance when faced with cancer.

“It will be the only cancer care service in the country offering the full spectrum of cancer services in one place.”

The Queensland Cancer Centre, based within the Herston Health Precinct at Brisbane’s Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, will have 150 beds with access to a multidisciplinary team of medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, nurses, and allied health professionals.

Concept design has been completed. Scoping and consultation will now begin.

Health Minister Yvette D’Ath said the facility demonstrated the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to improving the state’s healthcare system.

“This major development will allow us to provide the best care and treatment to double the number of people, and that is always our highest priority,” she said.

“The centre will have 150 beds, and provide access to a multidisciplinary team of medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, nurses, and allied health professionals.

“It will deliver a chemotherapy service, outpatient consult rooms, multiple operating theatres, and a pathology and pharmacy service.

“It will also include a full range of research, education and training facilities which will support continued and strengthened partnerships with the University of Queensland, Queensland University of Technology and QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute.”

Treasurer Cameron Dick said investing in the right infrastructure, technology and resources would be a vital part of this month’s State Budget.

“The pandemic showed us the vital link between a strong health system and a strong economy,” the Treasurer said.

“Investments in our health system will be a central focus of our budget, ensuring Queenslanders have access to the services they need.”

Education Minister and Member for McConnel Grace Grace said Metro North Health was Australia’s largest public health service and currently hosts the largest cancer care service in Queensland.

“This hospital will be life-changing for thousands of Queensland cancer sufferers,” she said.

“We’re not just catering to growth – we are building one of the world’s leading cancer hospitals right here in Queensland.

“Cancer is a scourge on our society. With more and more cases each year, we’ve made a clear decision to invest in the world’s best facilities, treatments and research to give Queenslanders the best shot.

“Today’s announcement is also about jobs – creating local opportunities for Queensland contractors and more than 2000 construction jobs.

ENDS

Media contact: Martin Philip 0407 675 008