Packer Family Foundation $3.75m donation
Packer Family Foundation’s $3.75 million donation will accelerate discoveries and drive research impact at the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute
7 December 2023
The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute warmly thanks the Packer family for a transformational donation to its cutting-edge Innovation Centre.
The funds will enable scientists at the world-class facility to undertake ground-breaking research to develop new treatments and cures to fight heart disease – Australia’s biggest killer.
The gift continues a long-standing relationship between the Packer family and the Institute dating back almost 30 years.
Paul Keating, Anna Chang and Kerry Packer at the unveiling of Institute plans in 1994
The Institute’s Director and CEO, Professor Jason Kovacic, says the funds will help to fast-track critical new research discoveries and drive research impact. Professor Kovacic says:
“The Packer family has been a driving force behind the Institute since the very beginning. They played an instrumental role in the building of our flagship headquarters in Sydney and have made donations that have led to significant breakthroughs. We are so proud that this partnership has continued and that their contribution comes at a tipping point for heart disease.
“Every day, we learn more about the causes of heart disease and what we can do to prevent it, and we are finally on the cusp of turning the tide against heart disease. We are committed to ensuring every one of our discoveries is translated into new treatments, devices, or cures for patients. This donation to our cutting-edge Innovation Centre will ensure we deliver on that promise far sooner.”
Mrs Roslyn Packer, AC, a VCCRI board member for many years, says the family is proud to have such a long-standing association with the Institute.
Mrs Packer says: “We believe in the vision of the Institute’s scientists and over the years have watched in awe as breakthrough after breakthrough has transformed our understanding of heart disease.
“Their discoveries have changed the face of heart transplantation, cured families of deadly inherited heart disorders , and one day soon may even help reduce the number of children born with heart defects.
“I have witnessed the dedicated work being carried out by the Institute’s scientists and know that our support will help deliver a better future for people the world over.”
The $3.75 million gift will support two key facilities housed in the Institute’s Innovation Centre. The Stem Cell Production Facility and the Cell Function and Screening Facilities. These two facilities play a crucial role in the Institute’s work in unlocking the genetic causes of heart disease.
Acknowledgement of Country
The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute acknowledges Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
