Australia leading the way with cancer research

Executive director of the Children's Cancer Institute Australia for Medical Research (CCIA), Professor Michelle Haber welcomed the recent announcement of the construction of a new world-class cancer research centre which will be an outstanding new focus of Australian adult and childhood cancer research.

CCIA will occupy 50% of the new building which, as one of the largest dedicated cancer research centres in the Southern Hemisphere, will house internationally recognised scientists from CCIA and the UNSW.

The announcement comes after the Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) awarded CCIA $3.1 million to establish a dedicated childhood cancer drug discovery facility at the UNSW-based centre. The state-of-the-art facility will focus on the development of new drugs that will be less toxic and more effective in the treatment of a range of cancers.

"Without the significant support we have received from so many, this exciting new centre simply would not be a reality. Its exceptional facilities and infrastructure will enhance our ability to closely integrate with other outstanding cancer researchers at UNSW and grow our research programs," said Professor Haber.

"What is most important about the centre is that it brings us that much closer to our goal of finding a cure for childhood cancer, which tragically still claims three Australian lives each week."

"In 2001, when the staff of CCIA numbered barely 50, we launched a Capital Appeal for construction of a new building estimated to cost $12.6 million. The appeal was a huge success resulting in the community generously donating $4 million, with a further $6.3 million awarded from the Commonwealth and NSW governments."

With construction due to commence in August this year and be completed by 2009, CCIA will be able to further increase its size to 250 staff and students and attract internationally renowned researchers.

The Lowy Cancer Research Centre will be located at the Randwick end of the UNSW campus, within walking distance of Sydney Children's Hospital, with whom CCIA closely collaborates.