A children's cancer support centre in Perth's inner-west has been forced to temporarily shut its doors after a deliberate fire attack that has sent shockwaves through the community it serves.
Fire Ignited in Donation Boxes on Heritage Veranda
The incident occurred on the night of Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at the Kids' Cancer Support Group (KCSG) House in West Leederville. According to KCSG president Richard Nell, the fire was deliberately lit inside donation boxes located on the front veranda of the heritage-listed building.
"What's happened is there were donation boxes out the front of the property on the veranda... they've stuffed cardboard boxes into the donation boxes and set fire to it," Mr Nell explained. The resulting blaze caused substantial damage to the veranda area and the front of the property, including windows, before it was extinguished.
Quick-thinking neighbours who spotted the flames raised the alarm and helped prevent the fire from spreading further into the building, a move praised by Mr Nell and local fire services.
A Lifeline for Vulnerable Families Severely Disrupted
The forced closure of the support house represents a significant blow to families with children battling cancer. The centre provides a sterilised, safe haven for immune-compromised children who cannot visit public play centres or even spend extended time in hospital common areas.
"It is a community house. Families, parents and the kids pop in. It's a hub for connection and support," Mr Nell said. He estimates the repairs, complicated by the building's heritage status, will take at least a month, stripping families of this crucial resource.
Mother Kristy Johnson, whose son Noah is being treated for Ewing sarcoma, described the centre as a "lifeline" and said the news of the deliberate attack was devastating. "To be honest, given that it's a children's cancer support group, I was disgusted," Ms Johnson said. "You've taken away that network... That network is everything to families. To my son."
Community Rallies as Police Launch Investigation
While the act has been widely condemned, Mr Nell stated he does not believe the charity was specifically targeted. "I honestly don't believe it was targeted. I hope to think it wasn't targeted — it was just an opportunistic person," he said.
Western Australia Police are investigating the arson and have appealed to the public for information. They are urging anyone who saw suspicious vehicles or people in the West Leederville area around 8pm on January 7 to contact Crime Stoppers. No arrests have been made at this time.
Despite the damage, the incident has highlighted the strength of the local community. Mr Nell expressed gratitude for the immediate response from neighbours and emergency services, which prevented a worse outcome. The charity is now focused on repairs and reviewing safety measures to reopen the vital refuge as soon as possible.
