2025-11-18
Australia's first publicly funded Quadra PET/CT scanner is now located at the Paula Fox Melanoma and Cancer Centre in Melbourne.
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas visited the 152millioncenterandinspectedtheadvancedquadrupoleemissiontomography/computedtomography(PET/CT)molecularimagingscanner.Theproject,co−fundedbytheAlanLaborGovernmentandtheAlfredFoundationwith152millioncenterandinspectedtheadvancedquadrupoleemissiontomography/computedtomography(PET/CT)molecularimagingscanner.Theproject,co−fundedbytheAlanLaborGovernmentandtheAlfredFoundationwith 12 million, and matched by the Albanese Labor Government, is the nation's second facility of its kind. This scanner can complete a whole-body scan in just five minutes, compared to traditional 30-60 minute scans, enabling better detection of smaller lesions and supporting more accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans. Meanwhile, it reduces the need for multiple follow-up scans for cancer patients, lowers radiation exposure, and improves safety for both patients and radiographers. The new Quadra PET/CT scanner has doubled the center's initial capacity, increasing the number of scans by 2,600 per year to a total of 5,000, served by a multidisciplinary team for cancer patients.
To enhance Victoria's global reputation in medical research, this scanner will also support local experts in conducting clinical oncology trials. The Paula Fox Cancer and Melanoma Centre can support up to 300 patients daily, featuring consultation rooms and 49 chemotherapy chairs, integrating multiple institutions to create a seamless care experience. With Australia having a high incidence of melanoma, the Labor government is vigorously promoting the development of innovative therapies. As Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas stated, "Victoria now proudly owns Australia's first publicly funded Quadra PET/CT scanner - which will support our world-leading skin cancer experts in saving more Victorian lives through early diagnosis and treatment. We will continue to invest in such cutting-edge technologies to ensure more Victorians can access the best cancer treatment close to home."
Source: China Nuclear Technology Network