THE GV Health Foundation has launched the ‘I Care for Cancer Care @ GV Health’ appeal to support the construction of a full Integrated Cancer Centre (ICC).
Of Victoria’s six designated regional public health services, GV Health is the only one without an ICC. The Foundation is aiming to raise $5M, sending a clear message that a fully integrated cancer facility is urgently needed.
Foundation Chair Stephen Merrylees said the campaign reflects a core belief that postcode should not determine treatment outcomes.
“Every person in the Goulburn Valley deserves access to world-class cancer care close to home and near their loved ones. This campaign is about ensuring our community has the facilities it needs, now and into the future.”
Demand is growing rapidly with treatments delivered at GV Health’s Oncology Unit increasing by 54 per cent in just four years, from 10,679 to 16,476. Rising cancer rates, strong patient preference for local care, and metropolitan hospitals referring patients back to GV Health are all driving this growth. Current facilities were not designed for this level of demand and are increasingly unsuited to modern, long-term cancer care.
The Federal Government has committed $30M for Stage 1, with construction scheduled for 2027, expanding treatment capacity and wellness services. However, the $90M needed for Stage 2 remains unsecured. Without it, oncology services will stay split across two sites and critically, on-site radiation therapy will not be available, meaning patients must continue travelling to an external provider.
Completing both stages would bring comprehensive cancer care under one roof, reducing travel and improving access.
The $5M appeal is underway, anchored by a $1M donation from the Copulos Family Foundation in December 2025. The Foundation is calling on individuals, businesses and community groups to contribute.
Donate at gvhealthfoundation.org.au/i-care-for-cancer-care/
