Construction has begun on a new multi-storey integrated cancer building in Adelaide’s inner south to accommodate thousands of South Australians impacted by cancer and their families.
The state government has contributed $10 million towards the new $31 million Cancer Council SA building on Greenhill Road at Eastwood.
Premier Steven Marshall said the five-storey development will be the state’s new home for all South Australian impacted by cancer.
The Premier helped turn the first sod on construction today.
“This is yet another example of this Government building what matters for South Australians, with this new facility helping to reduce the stress and uncertainty for families who are battling cancer,” said Premier Marshall.
“This facility will be a home away from home for the thousands of regional South Australians who need to travel to Adelaide for their treatment.
“We want South Australians to feel comfortable and at ease in a new facility that delivers the support they need while making them feel at home during their challenging time.”
Minister for Health and Wellbeing, Stephen Wade said the 120-room accommodation would replace Cancer Council SA’s Greenhill Lodge in Eastwood and Flinders Lodge in Kent Town.
“While these facilities have served South Australians well for decades, both are no longer fit-for-purpose, with Greenhill Lodge in particular prone to constant cracking,” said Minister Wade.
“As a result, rooms are in constant need of repair and maintenance which impacts the number of rooms available to those who need them.
“The Marshall Liberal Government is committed to fighting cancer and closing the gap in cancer outcomes between the city and country.”
The purpose-built accommodation facility will include:
– Communal kitchen facilities
– Dining spaces (pre-cooked affordable dinners can be delivered)
– Quiet breakout spaces
– Activity hub staffed by volunteers
– Access to on-site social workers
– Information and resource area
– Culturally appropriate accommodation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
– Family rooms and play spaces
– Onsite parking
– Free transport to treatment centres
As well as providing accommodation, the new $31 million building will also be the home of Cancer Council SA’s new headquarters for its support and information services, counselling services, prevention activities, intervention programs and behavioural research team.
The project is expected to support up to 160 jobs during construction. Construction is expected to finish by May 2022.
