Cancer Australia welcomes Minister for Health Sussan Ley’s appointment of Professor Robert Thomas OAM as Chair of Cancer Australia’s Advisory Council.
Professor Thomas, currently Chief Cancer Advisor to the Victorian State Department of Health and Human Services, has had a long and distinguished career in oncology and cancer policy.
He is Co-Chair of the National Cancer Expert Reference Group, and a member of the Advisory Board for the King’s College Hospital Global Health Initiative and the Advisory Board for Ecancer medicine, European Institute of Oncology, Milan.
Professor Thomas, a former Professor of Surgery at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Western Hospital in Victoria, has published over 100 peer reviewed scientific papers and book chapters.
Cancer Australia CEO, Professor Helen Zorbas said, “We look forward to working with Professor Thomas to improve outcomes for Australians affected by cancer. Professor Thomas brings a breadth of knowledge at national, international and jurisdictional levels as well as his experience as a clinician and cancer expert.”
Professor Zorbas also paid tribute to outgoing Chair, Professor Jim Bishop AO. “Cancer Australia recognises Professor Bishop’s invaluable contribution and his passion and commitment to cancer control. Professor Bishop has provided informed advice to Cancer Australia and distinguished leadership of the Advisory Council.”
Professor Thomas’ appointment as Cancer Australia’s Advisory Council Chair is for a three year term from 2 February 2016.