BCNA receives Federal Budget funding to extend support

Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) welcomes the Australian Federal Government’s investment into supporting women and men with breast cancer.

Health Minister Greg Hunt announced funding of $6.6m over three years to boost BCNA’s services. Three aspects of BCNA’s key work will benefit including the telephone Helpline, Regional and Rural Information Forums and Consumer Representative program.

This year more than 20,000 women and 170 men will be told they have breast cancer. While our hospitals and health professionals focus on providing the very best medical treatment, BCNA is there to provide information, connection, support and to be the voice for those affected.

A breast cancer diagnosis requires more than physical intervention, the emotional impact is often underestimated. This significant financial investment will deliver the very best psychosocial assistance and the latest treatment information to regional women and their families.

Breast Cancer Network CEO Kirsten Pilatti said at the announcement, “BCNA is there to navigate the system no matter where you are in your breast cancer journey. We provide the latest, evidence based information and empower the voices of those affected by breast cancer, we are so proud that this funding will strengthen our work. BCNA is very grateful to the Government and in particular to Minister Hunt for this crucial boost that will enhance the vital support we receive and rely on from the community.”

BCNA also welcomes the Government’s extension of the BreastScreen Australia program to include women 70 to 74 years. The investment of $67.6million will directly invite women in this age group to access free mammograms to aid in the early detection of breast cancer and complement BreastScreen Australia services already provided under the National Health Reform Agreement that targets women 50 to 69.

Minister Hunt said, “Breast Cancer is the most common cancer in women with close to 20,000 Australian women diagnosed annually. Our Government is proud of our investment in the latest treatment. This funding agreement with BCNA will ensure we are also investing in the supportive care that women in communities right around Australia need.”

“BCNA has been a leader in consumer advocacy and involvement, and I am so pleased we can support them to assist other cancer groups in this area. Hearing directly from those living with a disease brings many great advances to healthcare in this country.”