Victorian Opposition Leader Jess Wilson has pledged $20 million over two years to support a major children’s health research programme, with the Coalition proposing to fund the next phase of the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute’s Generation Victoria (GenV) study.
Wilson said the investment would help identify health and developmental problems earlier and ensure children receive appropriate support.
“Every parent wants their child to have the best possible start in life, and that means identifying problems early and making sure they get the right support,” she said.
“The Liberals and Nationals will back this world-leading research because investing in children’s health today means better outcomes for families tomorrow.”
The programme follows almost 50,000 children and 75,000 parents across Victoria, collecting health, education and developmental information to help researchers understand children’s health, development and wellbeing.
The proposed funding would support the continuation of the research programme and its expansion into Victorian primary schools, allowing researchers to examine children’s learning, development and wellbeing as they begin their school years.
The plan also includes establishing an Intervention Hub to trial and evaluate early intervention programmes and identify approaches that deliver effective outcomes.
GenV research has the potential to inform improvements in areas including childhood mental health, food allergies, obesity and school readiness. Its data and biological samples are also used to support research into children’s health and development.
Shadow Minister for Health Georgie Crozier said early identification of health and developmental challenges could improve access to treatment and support.
“The earlier we can identify health and developmental challenges in children, the better chance we have of providing effective treatment and support before those problems become more serious.”
She said the proposed investment would help researchers evaluate early intervention approaches and could reduce long-term pressure on the health system.
The $20 million commitment is an election pledge by the Victorian Liberals and Nationals. It would be delivered over two years if the Coalition forms government.
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