Robin's Reflections – June
June 03, 2025
This month marked the start of a new political term and the return of the Albanese Labor government. In the lead up to the election, several major commitments to women’s health were made, so I’m greatly encouraged by the focus on women’s health at the national level.
For the OCRF, this marks an opportunity to deepen our advocacy efforts and ensure ovarian cancer research finally takes its place in the spotlight. Building on an increasingly strong foundation, important alliances and presence, we will continue agitating for change and meaningful investment for this long-underfunded disease.
Read on for more!
A promising election result for women's health
I’m optimistic about the opportunity to work with the Albanese government, which has placed women’s health at the forefront of their policy agenda.
Their $500 million women’s health package is an important and vital step in addressing the complex and entrenched challenges women across the country face, but there is still more work to be done to see widespread change, especially for the ovarian cancer community.
As supporters of the Gynaecological Cancers Transformation Initiative, we’re eager to continue working with our peer organisations and the government to ensure gynaecological cancers become a national health priority.
Over the past year or so, we have worked increasingly closely with Ovarian Cancer Australia, seeking and finding opportunities to work together and align efforts to benefit our shared goal of better outcomes for everyone affected by ovarian cancer. I met recently with OCA CEO Debbie Shiell, and chairs of our respective boards, pictured left to right Julie Toop, Chair OCRF, Dr Juliet Bourke, Chair, OCA, and Michael Gabriel, Board Director OCA.
These excellent discussions reinforce the importance of our collaboration as we push for more resources, support and change for ovarian cancer patients. Strengthening and deepening these relationships is key to amplifying our impact!
Out and about: Building new connections
Following an incredible three months, there’s no slowing down! The OCRF team has been busy travelling around the country to strengthen our partnerships and expand our community connections.
Over the past month, I’ve had the privilege of presenting to corporate teams in New South Wales and Victoria. These moments of connection spark new conversations and pave the way for future collaborations.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to be part of a women’s health panel hosted by the Queensland chapter of Women in Super in Brisbane in late July, a wonderful opportunity to share the OCRF’s new strategy and discuss why more needs to be done to address structural and gender inequity in medical research. Every opportunity to speak is a chance to raise awareness of ovarian cancer and inspire tangible change.
Our strong start to the year has given everyone at the OCRF renewed energy for what lies ahead – including our 25th Anniversary Gala celebration – coming soon.
There’s so much happening – including our very special EOFY campaign starring delightful 20 year old OCRF Ambassador, Chelsea Regan. Thank you for your ongoing support – we literally couldn’t do this without you.
Warm wishes for June,
Robin Penty,
CEO
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