Werribee, Melbourne – Construction has commenced on a new radiation therapy center in Werribee, set to become a key component of the most comprehensive oncology service in Melbourne’s western region. This initiative is a collaboration between GenesisCare, a leading cancer care provider, and St Vincent’s Private Hospital, Werribee. The facility is expected to be operational by mid-2026, enhancing the region’s cancer treatment capabilities.
The partnership aims to integrate GenesisCare’s personalized, evidence-based radiation therapy with St Vincent’s existing cancer services, including surgery and medical oncology. This development promises to deliver seamless and convenient care, significantly reducing travel burdens for patients in Melbourne’s west.
Addressing Regional Cancer Care Needs
The latest data from the Victorian Cancer Register indicates that 38,715 Victorians were diagnosed with cancer in 2023, equating to an average of 106 new diagnoses each day. Modelling suggests that nearly 48.3% of Australians diagnosed with cancer could benefit from radiation therapy. This underscores the critical need for accessible treatment options in the region.
Emma Saliba, General Manager and Director of Clinical Services at St Vincent’s Private Hospital, Werribee, stated, “We’re pleased to launch this project with GenesisCare at St Vincent’s Private Hospital, Werribee, where we aim to offer better and fairer care for patients across the western area of Melbourne. The addition of radiation therapy will strengthen our cancer care offering, making it one of the most comprehensive oncology services in Melbourne’s western region.”
Expanding Local Healthcare Services
Earlier this year, St Vincent’s Private Hospital Werribee opened a newly refurbished Day Infusion Centre, further enhancing cancer services in the area. The center handles approximately 170 admissions monthly, providing vital treatments without the need for patients to travel into the city.
Dr. Michael Guiney, a Radiation Oncologist with GenesisCare, emphasized the importance of the new center, saying, “GenesisCare is proud to collaborate with St Vincent’s Private Hospital Werribee to bring high-quality, evidence-based radiation therapy closer to home for the Wyndham community. Once the center is open, a cancer patient from Werribee or the western region seeking radiation therapy will no longer need to travel more than 20 kilometers to the nearest treatment center, potentially saving an average of 15 hours of travel time during the course of their treatment.”
The availability of cancer care close to home can be crucial for patients. We know that long commutes can deter some patients from seeking or following through with care.
Economic and Community Impact
The new center will have the capacity to serve over 500 local cancer patients, expanding healthcare options and providing access to GenesisCare’s clinical excellence and patient-focused care. This initiative is also expected to create more than 20 highly skilled jobs, contributing to the healthcare sector, which is one of the top three growth sectors for employment in Wyndham.
Wyndham, one of Australia’s fastest-growing municipalities, stands to benefit significantly from this expansion in healthcare services. The new service builds on GenesisCare’s successful partnerships with St Vincent’s Hospitals in Fitzroy and New South Wales, as well as its longstanding relationships with regional doctors.
As the region continues to grow, the demand for comprehensive cancer care services is expected to rise. The collaboration between GenesisCare and St Vincent’s Private Hospital represents a strategic move to meet these needs, ensuring that high-quality cancer care remains accessible and efficient for Melbourne’s western communities.
