September 2015

Chair of Cancer Council Australia’s Board, the Hon Nicola Roxon, and Chair of Cancer Council’s National Screening and Immunisation Committee, Professor Karen Canfell, have both been recognised in this year’s list of 100 Women of Influence.

The list, compiled by The Australian Financial Review and Westpac, celebrates outstanding vision, leadership, innovation and action from women across the country in a diverse range of sectors.

Cancer Council Australia CEO, Professor Sanchia Aranda, congratulated Ms Roxon, who joined Cancer Council’s Board earlier this year. "Ms Roxon was honoured in the category of 'Global influence', reflecting her pioneering work in tobacco control and ongoing association with Union for International Cancer Control."

Prof Aranda said it was also gratifying to see recognition of the groundbreaking work of Prof Canfell, who heads the research division at Cancer Council NSW. "Prof Canfell is one of Australia’s leading cancer epidemiologists. Her expertise, particularly in the areas of cervical cancer and the HPV vaccine, see her in demand across many countries.

"Both Ms Roxon and Prof Canfell are shining examples of women who have made significant contributions on the national and international stage and we privileged to have such talented and dedicated people contributing to the field of cancer control."

Prof Aranda also paid tribute to other high achieving women in cancer recognised in the 100 Women of Influence:

• Prof Maria Kavallaris - Head of the Tumour Biology and Targeting Program / Co-director, Australian Centre for NanoMedicine at the Children's Cancer Institute Australia / UNSW. Awarded for innovation.
• Dr Ranjana Srivastava - Oncologist at Monash Health, award-winning author and Guardian columnist. Awarded for global influence.

"These women have all made remarkable contributions to cancer control in Australia and internationally," Prof Aranda said.

"We are fortunate to have such a breadth of expertise in Australia and their dedication to building our capacity in cancer research, prevention and treatment."