Our purpose
To minimise the impact of cancer, address disparities, and improve the health outcomes of people affected by cancer in Australia by providing national leadership in cancer control.
Our function
The Cancer Australia Act 2006 (Part 2, Section 7) specifies the following functions for Cancer Australia:
- to provide national leadership in cancer control
- to guide scientific improvements to cancer prevention, treatment and care
- to coordinate and liaise between the wide range of groups and health care providers with an interest in cancer
- to make recommendations to the Commonwealth Government about cancer policy and priorities
- to oversee a dedicated budget for research into cancer
- to assist with the implementation of Commonwealth Government policies and programs in cancer control
- to provide financial assistance, out of money appropriated by the Parliament, for research mentioned in paragraph (e) and for the implementation of policies and programs mentioned in paragraph (f)
- any functions that the Minister, by writing, directs Cancer Australia to perform.
Strategic priority
Cancer Australia’s overarching strategic priority is implementation of the Australian Cancer Plan.
The Australian Cancer Plan is a ten-year national strategic framework to accelerate world-class cancer outcomes and sets a bold agenda to improve the lives of all Australians affected by cancer.
The Australian Cancer Plan was developed through extensive engagement and consultation across the cancer sector, with input from people affected by cancer, consumer organisations, peak bodies, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, researchers, health professionals, non-government organisations, and policy makers.
Implementation of the Plan is a shared responsibility and will require joint efforts from the entire cancer control sector.
To view the Australian Cancer Plan and learn more about how we can help achieve world-class cancer outcomes and experiences for all Australians, visit www.australiancancerplan.gov.au
In addition, Cancer Australia develops a Corporate Plan annually that covers a four-year period. The report sets out the objectives and key activities Cancer Australia intends to pursue to achieve its purpose and is available at: Cancer Australia Corporate Plan
