Cancer Council NSW announces $40 million investment in life-saving cancer research

This commitment will continue to support cutting-edge research aimed at improving cancer prevention, early detection, screening and policy, with the ultimate goal of saving more lives and reducing the impact of cancer on the Australian community.

Professor Sarah Hosking, CEO of Cancer Council NSW, emphasised the significance of this investment: “Our financial commitment today is a cornerstone of Cancer Council NSW’s 5-year strategy, as we work towards our goal to change the path of cancer and make sure no one walks alone. By investing in research today, we are shaping a better future for all those affected by cancer.”

This new funding builds upon Cancer Council’s ongoing work to advance the understanding and treatment of cancer. With nearly 1 in 2 Australians expected to be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85, continued support and investment are essential to tackling cancer’s devastating effects.

Thanks to continued research investment, significant progress has already been made in cancer prevention, screening and treatment, contributing to increasing the 5-year survival rate for cancer patients from 51% in the late 1980s to approximately 70% today. Cancer Council NSW’s commitment to funding world-class research, and the impact is being felt by cancer patients across the nation. This new commitment by CCNSW sits within Cancer Council’s Research Strategy to improve cancer outcomes at every stage of the cancer continuum.

Their annual research grants through the National Health and Medical Research Centre powers the work of some of the most innovative researchers in Australia focused on better and more effective cancer treatments. Last year, Cancer Council NSW also announced the launch of the Australian Research Centre for Cancer Survivorship.

“This new research centre represents a vital step in our ongoing commitment to cancer survivors,” said Professor Hosking. “Thanks to advances in research and treatment, more people are surviving cancer than ever before. However, these survivors often face challenges long after their treatment ends. Our goal is to ensure they receive the ongoing care and support they need to live healthy, fulfilling lives.”

Cancer Council NSW has a long history in cancer research – it has been a central focus of its work since it was first established more than 60 years ago. Today's announcement and ambitious research strategy continues this tradition and makes them one of the largest nongovernment funders of cancer research in Australia committed to making a lasting difference for Australians affected by cancer.