It is with great pleasure that I announce the generous contribution of AMP
towards the fight against breast cancer.
AMP has provided $1.1 million to the NHMRC National Breast Cancer Centre
for several key projects designed to improve early diagnosis and treatment
of breast cancer.
Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer related death in Australian
women. By the age of 75 years, one in three men and one in four women will
be diagnosed with cancer. The Government is committed to finding new ways
to combat this disease which affects the lives of so many Australians. Research
is the key to cutting back its reach and impact.
Earlier this year I announced funding of $3 million for the Integrated Cancer
Programme to support cancer research and bolster the fight against this
devastating disease. When it became apparent that the NSW Government was
unable to match our commitment, the Federal Government provided an additional
$3 million taking the total to $6 million.
The Integrated Cancer Programme is a joint initiative between the Sydney
Cancer Centre and the Centenary Institute. The Commonwealth funding will
allow the Programme to expand its research and ensure that the new cancer
research discoveries are applied directly to the clinical care of patients
fighting the disease.
Additionally, the Government's decision to increase expenditure on medical
research by around $640 million over six years, more than double current
levels, is intended to ensure Australians continue to enjoy even higher
quality health care in the future. Women, as the majority of users of the
health care system, will be significant beneficiaries.
The NHMRC National Breast Cancer Centre has become an internationally recognised
organisation that has had a significant impact on improving the care of
women with breast cancer.
The partnership between AMP and the NHMRC National Breast Cancer Centre
is consistent with the Government's commitment to forge a new social coalition
to encourage business and individuals to engage with their communities.
The commitment by AMP is particularly welcome and I commend its efforts
to help save lives and improve community understanding of breast cancer.
25 October 1999