The McGrath Foundation will be able to expand its outstanding work supporting people with breast cancer, thanks to a $3.7 million boost from the NSW Government.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the package would take the total number of McGrath Breast Care Nurses across the state to 48.
The six NSW Government-funded nurses will be based in locations including Liverpool, Nepean/Blue Mountains and Northern Sydney.
McGrath Breast Care Nurses are specially trained to care for people diagnosed with breast cancer – providing vital support to patients and their families during what is a difficult time.
“The NSW Government has been a longtime supporter of the McGrath Foundation and we are proud to do even more over the next four years,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“Breast cancer has touched almost every family at some point in time – it is estimated there are around 70,000 people across NSW currently living with this disease with around another 15 being diagnosed each day.
Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the extra nurses will be invaluable in the health system.
“McGrath Nurses are there to help and we are so lucky to have them. From diagnosis to every stage of treatment, they will be with you in person or on the phone showing skill and compassion,” Mr Hazzard said.
The foundation, which was co-founded by cricket legend Glenn McGrath and his late wife Jane following her public experience with breast cancer, has supported thousands of people and their families experiencing breast cancer.
The announcement was welcomed by Mr McGrath, who said it would help support the McGrath Foundation’s goal to ensure everyone who needs a breast care nurse has one for free.
“Thanks to the generous support of the NSW Government, we’ll be able to continue placing McGrath Breast Care Nurses in the communities that need them the most,” Mr McGrath said.
“Whilst the majority of our nurses are in rural and regional parts of Australia, metropolitan areas with high population growth in the Greater Sydney area have the greatest need for breast care nurses due to projected breast cancer incidence.”