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Australia’s first proton therapy cancer facility is in disarray

Australia’s first proton therapy cancer facility is in disarray

The future of Australia’s first proton therapy unit remains uncertain after the South Australian government pulled out of a contract to buy the machine over fears it would not be delivered.

The South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) has officially terminated its agreement with ProTom International, the US supplier of the cancer treatment unit, after months of negotiations and concerns over the delivery of the equipment.

More than $50 million in Commonwealth grants have already been paid to ProTom International and its suppliers.

Australia's first proton therapy cancer treatment project in disarray
The future of Australia’s first proton therapy unit remains uncertain after the South Australian government pulled out of a contract to buy the machine over fears it would not be delivered. (Nine)

Another $500 million of taxpayers’ money was also spent on the Bragg Center on North Terrace, which houses a bunker specially designed for the ProTom machine.

“(We’re) trying to determine how much of that can be recovered, whether it’s money or goods that have been produced to date,” SA Treasurer Stephen Mulligan said.

The decision to abandon the project raised concerns about the future of proton therapy in Australia, a cancer treatment option currently unavailable in the country.

Proton therapy has enormous potential, as demonstrated by the experience of Mitcham’s mother, Monique Thompson.

Australia's first proton therapy cancer treatment project in disarray
Proton therapy has enormous potential, as demonstrated by the experience of Mitcham’s mother, Monique Thompson. (Nine)

Her daughter Sofia was successfully treated in the US for spinal cancer.

“There’s no words to say against having your child here if you find out they have a life-threatening condition,” Monique said.

Even if it is determined that a new car can be put in the North Terrace bunker, more taxpayers’ money will be needed.

The project will also be put out to tender again, meaning any treatment will still be years away.

This article was created with the assistance of 9Express.