Banking on new breakthroughs in children's cancer

We’re backing Victoria’s world-class medical researchers to tackle childhood cancers, with new funding to unlock breakthroughs in treatment and patient care.

Two research teams will share $770,000 in funding under the Children’s Cancer CoLab’s Innovation Accelerators Impact Program. The program brings together critical resources to drive discovery and clinical research.

This round of funding is supporting biobanks to provide critical samples for children’s cancer research. Biobanks store biological materials such as cells, blood and bone. The samples are used in research, including developing treatments and improving patient care.

The Monash Children’s Cancer Biobank, led by oncologist Dr Michelle Martin, will receive $360,000 in funding.

The Hudson Institute Living Biobank, led by Associate Professor Jason Cain, will receive $410,125 in funding.

These biobanks contribute to broader research into new cancer treatments both in Victoria and internationally. This makes a difference in the lives of children with cancer everywhere.

Plus, biobanks are central to growth in the health technologies and medical research sector. They boost Victoria’s capacity to attract clinical trials, draw global investment and strengthen local biotech businesses.

Victoria is home to one of the world’s leading health technology hubs, which is supported by 9 universities and 22 globally renowned research institutes.

The Children’s Cancer CoLab brings together the best and brightest minds to undertake cutting-edge research to tackle childhood cancer. It was established thanks to a Victorian Government contribution of $35 million, alongside the Children’s Cancer Foundation’s contribution of $10 million.