The Albanese Labor Government has confirmed it has no plan for delivering life-saving proton beam therapy in Australia for cancer patients whose lives depend on it.
The Australian Bragg Centre for Proton Therapy and Research has been built in Adelaide but stands empty of the proton beam technology it was constructed to house – despite a bipartisan commitment backed by both the Albanese Federal Government and the Malinauskas South Australian Government.
The Coalition has now tabled a petition in the Senate on behalf of Proton Cancer Access Australia and affected families, signed by more than 27,000 people demanding urgent action.
Shadow Minister for Health and Aged Care Senator Anne Ruston said Labor’s position defied belief.
“This technology saves lives and protects children from the devastating long-term impacts of radiation treatment,” Senator Ruston said.
“Instead of taking leadership on this issue, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has suggested the Commonwealth is simply waiting on the states to come back with a plan.”
Senator Ruston raised the issue in Senate Question Time today, asking the Government for a timeline on a Malinaskas Government proposal to finally deliver the project.
“Labor's answer: it is still waiting for the Malinauskas Government to produce a plan - and if SA can't manage it, they'll get around to asking someone else 'at some point,” Senator Ruston said.
“The lack of urgency on this issue amounts to gross negligence when Labor has conceded it has ‘clear advice’ Australian cancer patients need access to proton therapy.
“Devastatingly, it is Australian children with cancer and their families who are paying the price.”
Parents like Billie Tuckerman have been forced to travel overseas so her young daughter Evelyn could receive life-saving treatment, placing enormous emotional and financial strain on the family.
Other children, like Layla Davis, face the devastating reality that they may miss out on life-saving treatment altogether.
“No Australian parent should have to take their child overseas for cancer treatment that we have the ability to deliver right here in Australia,” Senator Ruston said.
“Cancer patients and their families deserve action, not more delays and excuses.”
ENDS
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