Our History

1976 – 1985

In 1975, a group of determined parents, alongside medical staff at the Royal Brisbane Children’s Hospital, came together with a shared purpose: to support one another through the unpredictable journey of childhood cancer. They recognised what others often missed, that every member of the family needs care, not just the child in treatment.

In 1976, this vision became a reality with the formal registration of the Queensland Children’s Leukaemia Society. Just three years later, in 1979, the organisation purchased its first home, Nunyara, in Herston, providing vital accommodation for families. By 1982, the name evolved to the Children’s Leukaemia & Cancer Society, reflecting a broader commitment to supporting children facing all types of cancer.

1986 – 1995

Marking a decade of support for families, the Children’s Leukaemia & Cancer Society expanded in 1986 with the purchase of a second Herston home, Allara. During this time, we also contributed to the National Paediatric Cancer Registry, supporting efforts to document and share the experiences of families across Australia.

In 1989, inspired by a Canberra-based youth support group, we introduced C.R.Y.S.T.A.L Q. (Cancer Related Youth Support Time Allocated to Laughter), creating opportunities for children to connect and enjoy time together outside the hospital. This led to the first Camp CRYSTAL in 1990, held in Aratula. Soon after, Kyeema House was established, its name meaning “place of the dawn”, symbolising hope and new beginnings for families navigating incredibly challenging times.

1996 – 2005

This decade marked a period of growth, structure and strengthened support. A full-time CEO was appointed, alongside expanding staff and administrative support, allowing the organisation to deliver more services and support to families. Accommodation capacity increased through renovations, including the rebuild of Kyeema and the repurposing of the caretaker’s unit for families. Planning began to further expand the number of units, while a dedicated volunteer program was introduced. In 2002, Dempsey House was purchased and later expanded with three additional units. This renovation was made possible through the support of Thiess, and the building was renamed the Thiess Dempsey House.

In 2004, the organisation embraced the name it is known for today, Childhood Cancer Support, reflecting its evolving role and enduring mission.

2006 – 2015

As demand for services continued to grow, the organisation remained focused on keeping families close to treatment. Following the opening of the new Queensland Children’s Hospital in 2014, three additional homes were purchased in South Brisbane and Woolloongabba, ensuring families could stay nearby during critical care periods. This expansion was achieved through fundraising efforts, as government funding was not available, highlighting the community’s vital role in sustaining and growing support for families.

2016 – 2025

Continuing to look ahead, Childhood Cancer Support took a significant step forward in 2021 with the purchase of five homes in East Brisbane. This site represents the future of the organisation’s services, forming the foundation of the Closeness Matters capital campaign. The vision is to develop 15 purpose-built family units, ensuring more families can stay together, close to treatment, and supported through every stage of their journey.