Earning support for a comprehensive cancer centre

Winning support for the development of WA’s first comprehensive cancer centre

Development of a Comprehensive Cancer Centre for WA is being led by the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research. In addition to better outcomes for patients, it will contribute to the Federal Government’s Australian Cancer Plan objective of establishing a national network of comprehensive cancer centres.

Comprehensive Cancer Centres around the world are revolutionising the patient experience, and connecting the wide network of medical, remedial and allied health services to the patient in a new way. They put the patient at the centre of a treatment plan, with one place where they can access their doctors, oncologists, therapists, counselling, and other services.

The Perkins engaged us to lead a campaign to build awareness and rally public support for the development of a Comprehensive Cancer Centre in WA following a $375 million commitment from the federal government.

Strategy

Developing a Comprehensive Cancer Centre in WA is a good call.

A good call an idea that’s certain and true. It’s a decision that just makes sense, that’s obvious as soon as it’s spoken. There’s no need to debate anything that’s clearly a good call.

We’ve seen the benefits in other countries. We’ve seen the benefits in other states. Federal Government see these benefits and have included plans to support a national network of comprehensive cancer centres, committing $375m towards building one in WA. It’s a good call.

Yet we know that slow decisions lead to indecision. We want to help the WA State Government feel confident and make the right call by showing West Aussies how a Comprehensive Cancer Centre is a good call.

Plan

Research showed us that most people are unaware about what a comprehensive cancer centre is and how it’s different to what we have. Our plan was therefore based on the need to educate people about what a comprehensive cancer centre is and then ask them to take action by sharing their cancer story and emailing their local MP to express their support. The plan was delivered across digital, radio, out of home, and publicity.

Results

The campaign was set to run for and initial two months. Within five days of launching, the Perkins received a call from the State Government confirming their support for the project. We’ll take that as a win, for everyone in Western Australia.