Four Australians have been celebrated for their commitment to cancer care, support and outcomes. See who they are.
Four individuals whose commitment has driven significant advances in equity for Australians affected by cancer have been honoured at this year’s Jeannie Ferris Award.
Established in 2013, the Jeannie Ferris Award recognises those who have made notable and enduring mark on cancer care, support and outcomes.
Mrs Lisa Briggs and Professor Margaret Heffernan OAM were named in the Members of the Community category while the awards in the Health Professionals and Researchers category went to Professor Gail Garvey AM and Associate Professor Mei Ling Yap.
A national voice for lung cancer awareness, Mrs Briggs was just 32 when she was diagnosed with incurable, Stage IV lung cancer.
Now more than a decade post-diagnosis, Lisa’s advocacy champions dignity, equity, and visibility for metastatic lung cancer patients.
Through key roles with groups like Thoracic Oncology Group Australasia, Lung Foundation Australia, Rare Cancers Australia and ALK Positive Australia, she has driven patient-centred research and illuminated the challenges confronting those living with lung cancer, paving the way for crucial policy and systemic reforms.
She said receiving the Jeannie Ferris award was “a powerful reminder that every time we speak up, we keep someone else’s dreams alive”.
“It also honours 10 years of life, hope, and dreams I was never promised or guaranteed, but have dedicated to rewriting what’s possible, to help build a brighter future for those living with lung cancer,” Mrs Briggs said.
Professor Heffernan has made a significant contribution to the gynaecological cancer sector in a career during the past 33 years. Her extensive work in a pro bono capacity as a survivor, consumer, advocate, educator and behavioural researcher has had sustained impact.
Her efforts have helped reduce disparities and inequities and empowering health professionals, patients, carers and survivors across all community sectors, particularly vulnerable populations. This has also impacted hospital and treatment centre infrastructure, policy, social justice and equity.
“I humbly accept the 2025 Jeannie Ferris Award on behalf of the invisible ‘backroom’ of heroes who have supported my vision for better outcomes, trekked with me unconditionally over the past 33 years,” Professor Heffernan said.
“Jeannie’s legacy is a reminder of the power of research, education, and advocacy in saving lives. We still have quite a journey ahead. Vale Jeannie, you were a tour de force!”
Professor Gail Garvey AM, a proud Kamilaroi woman, was recognised for her internationally acclaimed leadership in Indigenous health research.
With more than 30 years dedicated to improving cancer and wellbeing outcomes for Australia’s First Nations peoples, Professor Garvey has developed culturally safe, patient-centred tools that have transformed cancer care, founded the World Indigenous Cancer Conference, and was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia and Fellow of the Queensland Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2024.
“Thank you, Cancer Australia, I am honoured to receive the 2025 Jeannie Ferris Award,” Professor Garvey said.
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“This recognition inspires me to continue advancing to close the gap in cancer outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through culturally safe, community-driven care.”
Associate Professor Mei Ling Yap, a radiation oncologist and clinician researcher, was honoured for more than 15 years of advancing equitable cancer care in South Western Sydney and beyond, with a focus on culturally and linguistically diverse and socio-economically disadvantaged communities.
Her research has informed national and international cancer policy, including Australia’s first national cancer plan, and she leads global initiatives to strengthen oncology systems across the Asia-Pacific.
“The Jeannie Ferris Award reflects a shared vision to achieve equitable outcomes for every person affected by cancer, regardless of their identity, culture, socio-economic status or postcode,” Professor Yap said.
“My work has been inspired by the people of South Western Sydney Local Health District, who I have been privileged to provide clinical care to for over 15 years.”
She said the award also acknowledged the contribution of her research colleagues and the Australian cancer control community to improving outcomes globally.
“I have been very fortunate to have worked with dedicated colleagues from the Asia-Pacific Radiation Oncology Special Interest Group, RANZCR as well as global partners, to improve access to radiation therapy in our region,” she said.
Minister Butler presented the 2025 Jeannie Ferris Award to the recipients this week at Australian Parliament House in Canberra, with Jeremy Ferris, son of the late Senator Jeannie Ferris, in attendance.
“I am delighted to announce the recipients of the 2025 Jeannie Ferris Award, which highlights the remarkable contributions of individuals dedicated to improving cancer awareness, research and support across Australia,” Mr Butler said.
“By celebrating individuals who have made significant strides in this area, we are reinforcing our commitment to ensuring that every Australian, regardless of background or location, has access to high-quality cancer care.”
Cancer Australia CEO Professor Dorothy Keefe said the award supported and promoted the goals of the Australian Cancer Plan, which placed equity at the heart of cancer care.
“This year’s recipients exemplify the spirit of the Jeannie Ferris Award. Mrs Lisa Briggs, Professor Heffernan, Professor Garvey and Associate Professor Yap, have each made outstanding contributions to advancing equity in cancer care through their dedication and leadership,” Professor Keefe said.
