The Cancer Council is the primary non-government organisation in Australia focused on research, community education and patient support for all forms of cancer.

Previously known as The Australian Cancer Society, The Cancer Council aims to reduce the impact of cancer in the community through research, community awareness programs and support of cancer patients and their families. It advises the Australian Government and other relevant bodies on practices and policies to help prevent, detect and treat cancer.

Cancer Research Projects

In 2008, The Cancer Council will grant more than A$49 million for scientific research projects into various cancer-focused issues, including treatment and prevention.

Results from these projects are made available to government departments and medical health professionals to improve the treatment and diagnosis of cancer.

Community Education Programs

Advertising campaigns and information brochures on reducing cancer risk are part of the community education programs funded by The Cancer Council. In particular, education on skin cancer, the importance of early diagnosis of breast and cervical cancer and the risks of smoking are broadly available within the community thanks to their fundraising efforts.

The Cancer Council also provides a confidential hotline for anyone with questions about cancer and its diagnosis and treatment. This might include patients and their families, health professionals or simply those with concerns or questions about their own cancer risks. This service is available for the cost of a local phone call from anywhere in Australia on 13 11 20. Calls are taken between 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Some states have extended hours and multilingual services available.

Fundraising Programs

The Cancer Council accepts direct donations and bequests. They also have a range of merchandise available through their dedicated Cancer Council Stores including a range of high SPF swimwear, sunhats, sunscreens, sunglasses and protective clothing.

Fundraising events are held throughout the year to raise money for research, education programs and patient support. The most significant of these events are the following.

Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea - Thursday, 22nd May 2008

Businesses, workplaces and individuals register to hold morning tea gatherings. People attending these morning teas can make a donation while enjoying a cup of tea or coffee and some snacks. Many businesses register and set up morning tea tables for customers.

Daffodil Day – Friday, 22nd August 2008

Daffodil flowers, pins and other merchandise are sold to raise funds for The Cancer Council, who use the daffodil in their logo as a symbol of hope and new life.

Schools, business, community groups and individuals can register to sell Daffodil day merchandise and it is also generally available in shopping centres and department stores.

Girls Night In – October 2008

Women are encourage to organise fun nights at home with friends with guests are asked to donate what they would normally spend on a night out. These nights have included coffee and cake nights, movie nights, pamper nights with facials and manicures, karaoke nights and simply opportunities for friends to get together to chat.

In October 2007, the Girls Night In involved more than 6,000 events raising more than A$3.68 million for breast cancer research and support services.

Pink Ribbon Day – Monday, 27th October 2008

The pink ribbon is a symbol of support for women who have been affected by breast cancer in Australia and internationally. Funds raised through the Pink Ribbon Day activities are specifically targeted for use in research into breast cancer, support services for current cancer patients and community education programs.

Money is raised through the sale of merchandise including pink ribbon pins and wrist bands. Many companies donate a percentage of sales from products including chocolates, biscuits, bottled water, bakeware and household items.

The Cancer Council works extensively in the Australian community to facilitate cancer research, raise community awareness of the impact of cancer and provide support and encouragement for those affected by cancer and their families.

Related article: Australian Charity Events