Redundancies are expected to be announced at the Victoria Comprehensive Cancer Centre (VCCC) after the state government slashed its funding by 75 per cent.
The news broke on 3AW when host Mark Allen revealed many of the staff that would be impacted had clinical jobs in the hospital, but a hiring freeze meant they did not know if they would be able to find other work.
The 2024-25 Victorian budget saw money dedicated for medical research at the centre slashed from $30.5m to $7.5m over four years.
After the state budget was handed down the VCCC responded to the cut saying it was “very disappointing” for Victoria’s cancer and medical research sectors.
VCCC Alliance chief executive professor Grant McArthur said medical research was a major jewel in Victoria’s crown and the reduction in funding from previous levels was concerning.
“At a time when the incidence of cancer continues to increase, the VCCC Alliance model of collaboration between major health, academic and research institutions is more important than ever to achieve the best possible outcomes for Victorians affected by cancer,” he said.
“Cancer remains a significant health problem and burden in our community and incidence continues to increase.”
The VCCC Alliance is a joint venture of 10 institutions that integrates cancer research, education and clinical care.
The facility is connected to the Royal Melbourne Hospital and provides cancer research, clinical services and education facilities for tertiary students at Melbourne University.
It can accommodate more than 300 cancer patients a day and has dedicated clinical trails.
The Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre was contacted for comment.