Roles and Functions - PBS
Cancer Australia is a statutory agency responsible to the Minister for Health and Ageing.
Cancer Australia was established by the Australian Government in 2006 to:
- provide national leadership in cancer control,
- guide improvements to cancer prevention, treatment and care,
- coordinate and liaise between the wide range of organisations, groups and service providers with an interest in cancer care and support,
- make recommendations to the Australian Government about cancer policy and priorities,
- oversee a dedicated budget for research into cancer, help implement Australian Government policies and programs in cancer control, and
- undertake other tasks as directed by the Minister for Health and Ageing.
Cancer Australia provides advice to the Australian Government about all aspects of cancer control and all cancers. “Cancer control” includes all actions taken to reduce the impact of cancer on people affected by cancer and the community including research, prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, supportive care, rehabilitation, assistance in living with cancer, and palliative care.
We are responsible for implementing the following initiatives:
- a dedicated cancer research budget
- support for cancer clinical trials
- Building Cancer Support Networks program
- mentoring for regional hospitals and cancer professionals
- professional development for people providing care and support to people with cancer
- development of training courses for cancer nurses
Our work in these and other areas is detailed in other sections of our website.
Cancer Australia’s governance and functions are determined by the Cancer Australia Act 2006 , the Public Service Act 1999 and the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997.
Our priorities for each financial year, including funding and performance indicators, are outlined in our Portfolio Budget Statement.