Prime Minister Anthony Albanese today announced the Commonwealth Government has committed $6 million towards this year’s Western Australia Telethon fundraising appeal.

Telethon is an annual televised fundraising appeal in Western Australia and is broadcast live for 26 hours.

Now in its 55th year, over the past five decades Telethon has raised more than $457 million for sick and disadvantaged children.

The funding supports medical research, children’s hospitals and critical services for children with a disability. Key beneficiaries include the Telethon Kids Institute, a medical research institute based at Perth Children’s Hospital, WA Child Research Fund and Lions Eye Institute.

Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“Telethon is a Western Australian institution and it was an honour to attend today and announce the Commonwealth’s contribution to this worthy cause.

“Just a few weeks ago I met Emily and Ari, two of this year’s Little Telethon Stars, and I was blown away by their enthusiasm and excitement despite the individual challenges they have faced.

“Telethon wouldn’t happen without the generosity of Western Australian’s who dig deep every year.

“Thank you to the organisers and volunteers, Little Telethon Stars Ari, Emily and Leo, the WA Government, and businesses and the Western Australian community for donating to this very special cause.”