Bendigo Health teams up with Victorian Cancer Centre

A NEW partnership between the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre (VCCC) and Bendigo Health – which sees Bendigo Health become an associate member of the VCCC alliance – has been announced.

The VCCC is Australia’s first purpose-built comprehensive cancer centre and is located in Melbourne’s Biomedical Precinct adjacent to the Royal Women’s Hospital.

It serves as a hub for cancer research, treatment, education and care.

The new collaboration is considered to be a significant milestone for the organisation in its 16-year history, cementing its position as a leader in addressing disparities in cancer care between urban and regional areas.

“I’m delighted that Bendigo Health’s application for associate membership was unanimously supported by the membership,” VCCC chief executive Professor Grant McArthur said.

“We’re excited to begin working together on a range of educational and research initiatives, including those led by colleagues at Bendigo Health, to improve cancer outcomes for regional Victorians.”

Bendigo Health Cancer Centre director Chris White also welcomed the successful application, at the same time emphasising the importance of equity in cancer care for regional communities.

“Bendigo Health is proud to represent the needs of regional Victorians – particularly those across the expansive Loddon Mallee region, which spans approximately a quarter of the state of Victoria,” he said.

“This partnership reinforces our commitment to ensuring that people in regional and rural areas have the same access to high-quality, evidence-based cancer care as those in metropolitan centres. By working together with the VCCC Alliance, we’re strengthening our ability to deliver innovative research, education, and clinical excellence that will make a meaningful difference for patients right across our region.”

Bendigo Health’s Integrated Cancer Centre administers around 9000 chemotherapy treatments annually.