Walker Group commits to ‘world class’ medical research hub in Sydney’s southwest

A ‘world class’ medical research facility will emerge in the growing city of Campbelltown, with a property developer opening up his wallet to make the ambitious vision a reality.

An artist's impression of the proposed $50 million Macarthur Medical Research Centre.

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A ‘world class’ medical research facility will be built in Campbelltown, with one of the region’s biggest property developers financing the ambitious vision a reality.

The long-mooted Macarthur Medical Research Centre, to be located in the Campbelltown Hospital precinct, is set to become a dynamic hub for researchers investigating the region’s most pressing health conditions.

Walker Group has committed up to $26 million to the earmarked medical research facility.

The $50 million facility will be delivered by foundation partners Western Sydney University, South West Sydney Local Health District, the Ingham Institute and University of NSW.

Property developer Walker Group will also join forces as a foundation partner after announcing last month a pledge of up to $26 million in philanthropic gifts to the project.

Western Sydney University vice-chancellor Professor Barney Glover said it was an unprecedented commitment to health in Sydney’s southwest.

“The Macarthur Medical Research Centre is a major new opportunity for the region – a place to grow the health and medical workforce of the future, and a home for the world’s best and brightest researchers to bring together cutting-edge research, clinical expertise and innovation to improve the health and wellbeing of the local communities,” he said.

Western Sydney University chancellor Professor Peter Shergold AC, NSW Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres, Walker Group executive chairman Lang Walker and Western Sydney University vice-chancellor and president Professor Barney Glover.

Innovative research into diabetes, mental health, indigenous health, paediatrics and cancer is expected to take place in the facility, with the findings to guide advancements in patient care, treatment and preventive health.

Walker Group executive chairman Lang Walker said he was delighted to contribute to medical research in the region.

“A research centre in the Macarthur region will boost important social benefits to local communities, families and students,” he said.

“It also has the potential to transform Sydney’s south west to a regional centre full of jobs, opportunities and connected communities.

Plans for the proposed research facility are expected to be officially lodged in coming months.