February is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, and this year it arrives with a renewed sense of optimism, unity and forward momentum for women, families and communities across Australia.
Ovarian cancer is a complex disease, with more than 30 different subtypes requiring nuanced approaches to diagnosis, treatment and research. Despite these challenges, progress is being made. Today, 49 per cent of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer will survive more than five years—a figure that reflects steady gains driven by research, clinical trials and improved understanding of the disease.
For regional communities, awareness remains vital. Projections show that more women in regional areas are likely to face ovarian cancer over the coming decades, reinforcing the importance of equitable access to care, early diagnosis and research that reflects the realities of life outside major cities. Knowledge, advocacy and investment are powerful tools—and they are increasingly being used with purpose.
At the centre of this momentum is the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF), which has launched its 2025–2030 Strategic Plan with a clear and hopeful vision: a healthy, vital future for all those impacted by ovarian cancer. The strategy reflects a maturing organisation with growing influence, focused on driving step-change in research, awareness and funding for Australia’s most lethal gynaecological cancer.
That sense of progress was on full display recently when OCRF CEO Robin Penty spent two days in Canberra meeting with government leaders as part of a coordinated advocacy push for the Gynaecological Cancer Transformation Initiative. Speaking after the visit, Robin described a powerful shift—one built on collaboration, shared purpose and a united voice across the ovarian cancer sector.
For the first time, researchers, clinicians, advocacy organisations and the ovarian cancer community are presenting a clear, well-costed and collective case for reform and investment. Government leaders have responded positively, noting they have waited many years for this level of alignment and cooperation across the sector.
Encouragingly, ovarian cancer has also recently been reclassified as a “common cancer for females” in Australia. While sobering, this recognition strengthens the case for prioritisation, funding and long-overdue equity in women’s health research.
This year’s Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month feels different because it is different. There is momentum. There is political engagement. And there is a shared belief that survival rates do not have to stand still.
February’s teal message is one of hope and action. By supporting OCRF—through donations, advocacy or simply starting conversations—communities can help transform today’s progress into lasting change, and ensure a better future for generations of women and girls.
Pictured (L-R): Alison Evans, CEO ANZGOG, Debbie Shiell, CEO OCA, Rebecca White MP, Assistant Minister for Health and Robin Penty, CEO OCRF.
