Proton beam therapy centre for SA

Australia's first proton beam therapy centre will be built in Adelaide after the federal government committed $68 million to its establishment.

It's a type of radiation therapy that uses heavier particles (protons) instead of X-rays and more accurately targets tumours located close to vital organs, tissues and bones.

The facility will be built at the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute in Adelaide and is expected to be operational by 2020.

The South Australian state government is chipping in $44 million for the project.

Health Minister Greg Hunt said the technology will benefit people suffering from cancer in the brain, vertebral column and bony pelvis, and for treating specific tumours in infants and young children.

Some cancer patients have been travelling overseas for the treatment.

Mr Hunt confirmed the government is exploring options for additional facilities in other states and territories.

Key Senate crossbencher Nick Xenophon hailed the funding announcement saying his team had spent hours lobbying for the facility.

"This is the first proton therapy centre in the southern hemisphere and it will be a beacon of hope not just for Australians but the entire region," he told AAP.