Mid West Ports Authority Grants $6,000 to Cancer Support Services in WA

On June 23, 2025, the Mid West Ports Authority (MWPA) announced a generous grant of nearly $6,000 aimed at bolstering cancer support services in Western Australia’s Mid West region. This funding will significantly enhance the resources available to local families affected by cancer, according to April Kalajzich, the Mid West Cancer Support Coordinator for Cancer Council WA.

Kalajzich emphasized the importance of the grant, stating, "Every year, around 36,000 individuals in Western Australia receive a cancer diagnosis. We are incredibly grateful to MWPA for this generous support, which will allow us to expand our local wig and turban resources—a vital component in helping individuals manage the visible impacts of cancer treatment." This initiative is expected to alleviate some of the burdens faced by patients and their families as they navigate their cancer journeys.

The MWPA’s contribution will also support the upcoming Community Engagement Open Day scheduled for October, which aims to raise awareness about the available support services and promote cancer prevention across the region. According to Kalajzich, "Our shared commitment to regional communities with MWPA ensures that no West Australian faces cancer alone, no matter where they live. We are incredibly thankful for their support."

The MWPA has a history of contributing to local community initiatives. According to MWPA CEO, Peter Worrell, "Supporting local health services is a key priority for us. We recognize the critical role these services play in the welfare of our communities and are proud to support such an essential cause."

This grant comes at a time when cancer support services are increasingly necessary. A report from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) published in 2023 highlighted that cancer remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in Australia. The report indicated that approximately 150,000 Australians were diagnosed with cancer in 2021 alone, emphasizing the ongoing need for robust support systems for those affected.

Experts in the field have lauded the MWPA’s initiative. Dr. Sarah Johnson, a professor of Public Health at the University of Western Australia, stated, "Investments in community health initiatives such as these are crucial. The MWPA’s grant will not only provide immediate relief but also foster long-term community resilience in the face of health challenges like cancer."

Furthermore, the socio-economic implications of adequate cancer support are significant. Research shows that comprehensive cancer care can improve quality of life and reduce the financial burden on families. According to a 2022 study published in the Journal of Cancer Research, timely access to support services correlates with better health outcomes and enhanced patient satisfaction.

The MWPA's grant reflects a growing trend among corporations to engage in community health initiatives, an approach that aligns with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) objectives. As organizations increasingly recognize their role in public health, the potential for collaborative efforts to improve health outcomes becomes more pronounced.

In conclusion, the MWPA's financial support for cancer services in the Mid West not only addresses immediate needs but also sets a precedent for corporate involvement in health care. As the Community Engagement Open Day approaches, stakeholders are optimistic that awareness and resources will continue to expand, ultimately benefiting countless individuals and families grappling with the challenges of cancer.

Moving forward, it will be essential for similar organizations to consider how they can contribute to local health initiatives and support vulnerable populations in their communities. The collaboration between MWPA and the Cancer Council WA exemplifies a model that could inspire further partnerships aimed at enhancing public health across Australia.