The McGowan government has welcomed federal funding for a one-stop cancer facility but has stopped short of committing its own money to it.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced $375 million for the proposed WA Comprehensive Cancer Centre [WA CCC] would feature in the coming federal budget.
The $750 million project developed by the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research will rely on a significant WA contribution.
The WA CCC will be a one-stop centre for cancer treatments, therapy, palliative care and rehabilitation, taking inspiration from similar centres in New South Wales and Victoria.
A state government spokesperson said they welcomed confirmation of the federal money, but a $2.5 million business case to "inform options" for the project was still ongoing.
Final cost unknown: McGowan
Mr McGowan said this week the state's contribution would come in "significantly more" than the $375 million estimate, according to initial advice from the business case.
"Of course, we would love a cancer centre for Western Australia, but you've got to understand what you're committing to and what the impact on other services and staffing may be," he said.
"Providing the best of cancer services is very important and that's why we’re working through what the best arrangement would be and how we would deliver such a facility."
'Unnecessary uncertainty'
WA opposition health spokesperson Libby Mettam said the federal government’s commitment meant the state needed to follow suit.
"The Premier is creating unnecessary uncertainty surrounding the future of this vital project," she said.
"I think there would be significant concern [from the public], if it did not go ahead.
"It has federal government support, there is clear demand, and it also represents a great opportunity to support our research capacity in this state."
Institute not concerned
Chair of the Harry Perkins Institute, John Barrington, described Mr Albanese’s commitment as "extremely good news".
He said he was not concerned the state had not yet agreed on funding, nor that the cost could blow out.
"The intent of the business case is to prove up the viability and there is certainly a need," he said.
"We will be working closely with the state government to bring that together."
