MO MENT UM Case for Support
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MOMENTUM CREATING THE DRIVE TO REALISE OUR 2030 VISION
This is a pivotal moment for Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA). As we launch our new strategy, we are focused on building the momentum needed to drive lasting change by 2030—for earlier detection, better care and stronger support for everyone affected by breast cancer. Grounded in the lived experiences of our community and driven by what matters most, Momentum reflects our deepening role as Australia’s leading organisation for trusted, evidence-based information, support tools and consumer-informed advocacy. We are forging ahead with sharpened focus—accelerating towards a future shaped by the voices of those we represent.
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Case for Support
Every breast cancer diagnosis marks the beginning of a deeply personal experience. One that can bring fear, uncertainty and disruption. At its best, each journey is supported by clear information, expert care, connection and strong support across the entire breast cancer experience. As someone who has lived with a breast cancer diagnosis, I know how disorienting and confronting it can be—even with access to excellent care. For some, the road ahead is made even more challenging by inequity, isolation, cost and complexity. BCNA exists to ensure that every Australian affected by breast cancer—from family members and friends to carers and colleagues—receives the best care, treatment and support, no matter who they are or where they live.
MESSAGE FROM KATHRYN FAGG AC
STANDING WITH EVERYONE AFFECTED BY BREAST CANCER, AT EVERY STAGE OF THE JOURNEY
For more than 25 years, BCNA has shown what’s possible when care is centred on people, not just processes. We've improved access to screening and treatment, reduced financial pressures, and ensured that the voices of lived experience are heard— not just in support groups, but in policy discussions and health system decisions. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved, but the challenge is evolving. By 2030, more Australians will be diagnosed and living with breast cancer than ever before. At the same time, the health system is under pressure and gaps in awareness, access and affordability are widening. Too many people still miss out on the information or support they need. Our strategy for 2030 sets out how we will meet this moment. It focuses on what matters and what we can meaningfully change: detecting cancer earlier; making costs more transparent and fair; supporting people to make informed decisions; connecting them with others who understand; helping people to feel a sense of belonging; and ensuring the system works better for everyone affected by breast cancer. This is a year to build—to deepen our insight, scale what’s working, inform new initiatives and lay the foundations for lasting impact. What happens next is in our hands. As I complete my term as Chair, I am inspired by BCNA’s vision. This is a defining year. A year to act, grow and help build a better future. But we can’t do it alone. Your support is what makes this work possible. Every initiative you will read about—from early detection to smarter screening; from fairer costs to better access to trusted information and support—depends on people like you walking alongside us. Together, we will stand with every Australian affected by breast cancer. We will elevate their voices, ensuring they receive the care, connection and support they need—and the future they deserve.
KATHRYN FAGG AC Chair, BCNA
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Breast Cancer Network Australia
Case for Support
This is the gold standard...BCNA is consistently and relentlessly seeking to push the envelope about ways in which we can improve the cancer journey for women experiencing breast cancer.”
THE HON MARK BUTLER MP Minister for Health and Ageing
WE ARE AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST CONSUMER-INFORMED BREAST CANCER ORGANISATION Our strength comes from the hundreds of thousands of women, men, families and supporters who turn to us—and stand with us—to build a better future for everyone affected by breast cancer. Our impact stems from the trust and authority we hold to influence health professionals, policymakers and governments, and is measured in lives changed, care improved, and a national system that listens more closely to the people it serves.
WE ARE THE ONLY NATIONAL ORGANISATION SUPPORTING PEOPLE AT EVERY STAGE OF THE BREAST CANCER EXPERIENCE From early detection and diagnosis to treatment, to life with and after breast cancer, we support individuals and families through it all—including bereavement and the invisible challenges faced by carers.
OUR HOLISTIC, CONSUMER- INFORMED APPROACH SETS US APART We understand that breast cancer
OUR PEOPLE ARE OUR SUPERPOWER From shaping policy at the highest levels to delivering grassroots connection and support. CEO Kirsten Pilatti is a member of the Health Technology Assessment Review Implementation Advisory Group, helping shape how new treatments are assessed and adopted. Policy and Advocacy Director Vicki Durston plays a key role in national and international policy and strategy discussions, including the WHO Global Breast Cancer Initiative. And through our Consumer Representatives, the voice of people affected by breast cancer is heard at every level of government decision-making.
OUR INFLUENCE AND LEADERSHIP NOW EXTEND GLOBALLY
WE ARE UNIQUELY POSITIONED TO CREATE EVEN MORE MOMENTUM
In 2025, BCNA joined Breast Cancer Now (UK) and Rethink Breast Cancer (Canada) in calling on governments to accurately count and support people living with metastatic breast cancer. This collaboration is driving international momentum, with Australia’s world-first data breakthroughs now informing global standards and inspiring action worldwide.
Driven by expertise, compassion, courage and an unshakable belief in the power of community, BCNA has the trust, experience and global reach to effect real and lasting change.
doesn’t just affect the body—it impacts emotional wellbeing, work and financial security, relationships and everyday life. Our support spans all of these dimensions, and our advocacy reflects the full reality of what people experience.
ON THE WORLD STAGE Through her appointment to the WHO’s Global Breast Cancer Initiative– Leadership & Advocacy Working Group, BCNA’s Vicki Durston provides strategic guidance and amplifies lived experience at the highest levels of global decision-making
THE GOLD STANDARD IN CONSUMER-INFORMED CARE
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Breast Cancer Network Australia
Case for Support
OUR MOMENTUM PRIORITIES WILL SHAPE WHAT COMES NEXT
PRIORITIES: Each of BCNA’s five philanthropic priorities is grounded in the lived experiences of our community. Together, they build the momentum to change the future of breast cancer care and support—for everyone, at every stage of their journey.
INFORMATION EMPOWERS
EARLY DETECTION SAVES LIVES WE WILL LAUNCH A MULTI-MEDIA CAMPAIGN TO DRIVE AWARENESS AND ACTION
MAKING HIDDEN COSTS VISIBLE WE WILL SHINE A LIGHT ON THE COST BURDEN OF CARE
SCREENING THAT WORKS FOR EVERY BODY WE WILL ADVOCATE UNTIL BREAST SCREENING WORKS, FOR EVERYONE
INNOVATION THAT IMPACTS WE WILL SCALE SOLUTIONS THAT WORK TO REACH FURTHER, FASTER
WE WILL BUILD THE TOOLS PEOPLE NEED TO TAKE CONTROL
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Breast Cancer Network Australia
Case for Support
INFORMATION EMPOWERS
WE WILL BUILD THE TOOLS PEOPLE NEED TO TAKE CONTROL
A breast cancer diagnosis affects more than health—it brings challenges that impact work, wellbeing, family life, and plans for the future. There are decisions to make, systems to navigate, and physical and emotional hurdles to overcome— often all at once. Access to trusted information and meaningful connection gives people more confidence for the journey ahead. The right support empowers each individual to understand their diagnosis, navigate treatment options and take their place in shaping their care. BCNA is already one of Australia’s most trusted and relied-upon sources of support. Every day, thousands of people turn to us for answers, reassurance and connection. Our digital tool, My Journey, offers personalised, plain-language guidance tailored to each diagnosis and treatment stage. Our free and confidential Helpline helps people navigate information, connect with the right services and resources, and feel heard and supported. Our podcast series shares expert perspectives and lived experience. And our Online Network provides safe, supportive spaces to ask questions, share stories, and experience a sense of belonging. These tools are helping thousands to stay informed, supported and more connected—but we know we haven’t reached everyone who needs us. By expanding our content, developing inclusive and culturally relevant resources, and improving access for people living with metastatic disease, families and carers, or those at increased risk, we will meet the diverse needs of our community and ensure they have support aligned with the latest advances in treatment and care. And, by strengthening links with health professionals, more people will be connected with BCNA earlier in their experience. As more people turn to search engines and AI for health advice, it is crucial that trusted, experience-informed content remains visible, accessible and easy to navigate whenever and wherever it’s needed. Your support will help us build on this momentum—expanding our reach, strengthening our tools, and ensuring every member of our community can navigate breast cancer with clarity, connection and confidence.
TRUSTED BY THOUSANDS, EVERY DAY
LAST YEAR, 530,000 PEOPLE ACCESSED BCNA’S ONLINE INFORMATION AND RESOURCES, AND MORE THAN 14,000 CONTACTED OUR HELPLINE FOR SUPPORT
Knowledge is power. When you’re making big decisions about your health and future, the unknown is the hardest—and BCNA’s information and resources are incredible. I’m lucky to have amazing support from family and friends, and having the BCNA community to share experiences with and lean on makes all the difference.” TONI diagnosed at 31
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Breast Cancer Network Australia
Case for Support
EARLY DETECTION SAVES LIVES WE WILL LAUNCH A MULTI-MEDIA CAMPAIGN TO DRIVE AWARENESS AND ACTION
SOPHIE diagnosed at 36
I was only 36 when chest pain and my intuition told me to see the doctor. Knowing my family history made me proactive, and I’m super lucky it was picked up early. I went straight into 16 weeks of chemo and a year of treatment. I want women to understand the importance of knowing their risk, advocating for themselves, and getting screened. Health is a gift-take care of it.
Breast cancer is still being diagnosed too late. Despite decades of early screening awareness efforts, nearly half of eligible Australian women are not participating in the national breast screening program, and over 51% of cancers are still detected at stage 2 and beyond. When cancers are detected later, treatment is more invasive and outcomes may be worse—not only for the women affected, but also for their families, carers, our community and the health systems that support them. We know early detection and screening works, and we are committed to making sure every woman at risk knows it too.
1 IN 2 ELIGIBLE WOMEN ARE NOT GETTING SCREENED BUT BREAST CANCER DOESN’T WAIT SCREENING SAVES LIVES SINCE BREASTSCREEN AUSTRALIA BEGAN, BREAST CANCER DEATHS HAVE HALVED AMONG WOMEN AGED 50 TO 74
BCNA must lead a national public awareness campaign to encourage more women to be breast aware, know their risk and screen when it is right for them.
By lifting knowledge, we will contribute to increasing awareness, action and screening rates. We want to be part of driving breast cancer detection at stage 0 and 1, where women have more treatment options, fewer complications and high survival rates. A national first, BCNA's Australia-wide multi-media awareness campaign will be evidence-informed and shaped by lived experience. As a critical first step, we will bring together existing evidence, draw on insights from our international collaborators, and design a bold, inclusive campaign that tackles the barriers and amplifies the drivers for behavioural change—from awareness and culture to confidence, accessibility and trust. The evidence and insights will guide the design of a bold and inclusive multi- channel campaign, with tailored messages and delivery strategies that will come from a trusted organisation and resonate with the groups that will benefit most. Our immediate focus will be women 40 and over—the group currently eligible for free breast screening. Changing behaviours within this group now will have a significant and rapid impact on reducing late diagnoses. We know that Australians trust us, and we will harness that trust to amplify the reach and impact of BreastScreen campaigns. This bold health campaign is our opportunity to change the story—for women, families, and for the systems that support them. By increasing knowledge of risk and the importance of breast screening participation, we want to contribute to the detection of more cancers earlier, reduce the emotional and financial toll on households, and ease pressure on health systems by avoiding costly late- stage interventions. Investment in this public awareness campaign will ensure we can accelerate the charge for earlier detection, and give more women more time, more options and more hope.
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Breast Cancer Network Australia
Case for Support
MAKING HIDDEN COSTS VISIBLE WE WILL SHINE A LIGHT ON THE COST BURDEN OF CARE
A diagnosis can turn life upside down—emotionally, physically and financially. In the midst of fear and uncertainty, when the focus should be on health and recovery, financial stress too often forces people with breast cancer and their families to make decisions based on what they can afford, rather than on what’s best for their care. The costs associated with breast cancer can be unpredictable, unequal and often poorly understood. From imaging and testing to treatment and medicines, allied health and side effects, out-of-pocket expenses escalate rapidly. Costs can exceed tens of thousands of dollars, and what will be charged is often unknown until the bill arrives. Inconsistent fees, hidden charges, and no easy way to compare or plan. These are more than financial problems—they are barriers to care. BCNA is determined to build a national picture of the true financial burden, and use it to drive reform. Our community has told us again and again: the financial pressure is relentless. We need a system where care is based on need, not on affordability or income.
25% OF WOMEN REPORTED $17,000 OUT-OF-POCKET COSTS WITHIN 5 YEARS OF DIAGNOSIS The Financial Impact of Breast Cancer, 2017 BCNA study LIFE-EXTENDING DRUG ENHERTU PREVIOUSLY COST $5K PER VIAL BCNA FOUGHT TO BRING THE COST DOWN TO JUST $25 THROUGH THE PBS — IN SOME CASES, SAVING UP TO $260,000 PER YEAR
BCNA is uniquely positioned to lead a national investigation into the current financial burden of breast cancer—and we will.
By combining the insight of our member network with the expertise of our university research partners, we will uncover the real challenges experienced across communities and care systems. The charges even our governments and private health insurers can't see. The data and stories gathered from across the country will help us identify the true extent and nature of out-of-pocket costs, understand why and where disparities occur, and reveal how financial pressures impact people’s lives and care decisions. This evidence will shine a light where it matters most—on the pricing practices, policies and protections that shape the experience of breast cancer care. Armed with this information, we will advocate for pricing transparency, fairer access to financial support, and a more equitable system. By exposing the true cost of breast cancer, we can remove financial barriers, help everyone seek care earlier and improve treatment outcomes. Funding our research will build the momentum to make breast cancer care fairer, and take finances out of the equation.
Work is so important to me—not just for purpose, but to pay my medical bills and live as fully as I can. Every scan, treatment and side effect brings stress and costs I never expected. Living in this limbo is exhausting, but I’m hopeful things can change so others won’t have to face the same.”
KATIE diagnosed at 31
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Breast Cancer Network Australia
Case for Support
SCREENING THAT WORKS FOR EVERY BODY WE WILL ADVOCATE UNTIL BREAST SCREENING WORKS, FOR EVERYONE
Australia’s national BreastScreen program saves lives, but it doesn’t work equally well for everyone. Half of eligible women still don't screen, and the current ‘one- size-fits-all’ approach means some cancers are missed, others are caught too late, and women at lower risk undergo unnecessary screening. From breast density and family history to screening technologies and intervals, there are many factors that affect someone’s risk of developing breast cancer and the likelihood that it will be detected early. But these factors aren’t always considered, which creates both inequity and inefficiency across the system. BCNA is leading the national push for a contemporary, research-based, personalised, risk-based screening where every Australian gets the screening they need, when it counts. We know we can succeed. In 2023, BCNA played a key role in shaping BreastScreen Australia’s position statement on breast density, ensuring clearer, more consistent information reaches both women and health professionals. We were also a major contributor to the Roadmap to Optimising Screening in Australia (ROSA), which informed the Federal Government’s recent review of the BreastScreen program. These wins show what’s possible—and what comes next. Governments listen to our advice, and act on it. Our advocacy is informed, respected and grounded in the needs of people affected by breast cancer. Now we’re ready to lead the next phase of reform, calling for a national commitment to screening consistency, policy change, and progress in personalised prevention.
40% OF BREAST CANCERS MISSED BY SCREENING MAY BE LINKED TO BREAST DENSITY
RISK-BASED SCREENING SAVES LIVES
LINDA diagnosed at 50
This priority is about building a screening system that reflects the best available science and leads to the best possible outcomes— for everyone.
Our first step will be to draw on the BreastScreen review and bring together the brightest minds from across Australia to provide federal and state governments with a clear, actionable roadmap to modernise the screening program. We are committed to delivering practical, evidence-based solutions that strengthen our healthcare system and impact the lives of all Australians. Your support will accelerate our ability to lead this next wave of reform, and make breast cancer screening smarter, fairer and more effective for generations to come.
Having the BRCA1 gene is like a ticking time bomb. Waiting years for surgery meant I couldn’t plan my life, and the anxiety was relentless. If the system allowed faster, risk-informed access, my daughters and others like them could take control sooner, avoid fear, and live with confidence and hope for the future.”
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Breast Cancer Network Australia
Case for Support
INNOVATION THAT IMPACTS WE WILL SCALE SOLUTIONS THAT WORK TO REACH FURTHER, FASTER
From clinical practice and community-led programs to research institutions and advocacy groups, innovative new ways to improve breast cancer support and care emerge every day. Though promising and backed by cutting-edge research, many of these ideas never reach the people who need them most. Lack of secure funding and investment causes research projects to stall at pilot stage or fail to be effectively adapted for different communities.
We can’t let life-changing ideas remain unrealised. That’s why BCNA is planning to launch the Catalyst Fund.
The Fund aims to find new solutions ready to move from research or development stage to real-world impact. We are especially driven to support the priority populations BCNA has identified—people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, First Nations peoples, those in rural and regional areas, people living with metastatic breast cancer, and LGBTIQ+ communities. Your investment in the Catalyst Fund will accelerate collaborations with these visionary thinkers to test and scale ideas that not only deliver direct impact for the individuals who most need support, but also build capacity for care. This includes forging strong connections between researchers, community groups, health professionals and national networks to ensure solutions are truly embedded for the long term. BCNA knows this approach works. SMS Connect—a text-based support tool co-designed by people affected by breast cancer, researchers and health professionals—was initially designed to help people with early-stage cancer manage symptoms beyond treatment. This award-winning model is now being tested for its potential to transform how people in rural and remote areas live after breast cancer, showing how targeted investment in innovation, coupled with collaboration, can deliver lasting, scalable impact. Our Catalyst Fund will back the pioneers—breaking down barriers, closing gaps, and turning great ideas into solutions that strengthen the whole system of support. Because when innovation is given the chance to accelerate, it can drive real impact. Further and faster than we can imagine.
KRISTAL diagnosed at 44
As a proud Jawoyn and Wiradjuri woman, and a single mum, I know how much it matters to have support that’s real and within reach. I’d love to see fresh ideas and programs that truly work for everyone—especially our First Nations families. For us, that means resources built with mob at the centre, so we stay connected, strong and supported every step of the way.”
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Breast Cancer Network Australia
Case for Support
This is a defining moment for BCNA. With the right support, we can turn bold plans into real progress and ensure no one faces breast cancer alone.”
KIRSTEN PILATTI CEO, BCNA
This year marks a pivotal moment for BCNA—and for the future of breast cancer care in Australia, and beyond. Our bold new strategy is driven by our vision for 2030: a future where every Australian affected by breast cancer has access to the best possible care, no matter who they are or where they live. This vision, and our priorities, are shaped by the voices of our community. From earlier detection and better screening to reducing the financial burden of care. From innovative ideas that spark impact to personalised, holistic support. From diagnosis to recovery and beyond, we are leading the charge to deliver change where and when it’s needed most.
NOW IS THE TIME TO BUILD MOMENTUM
Our goals are ambitious, and they need to be. Real progress will come from scaling what works, embracing innovation and growth, and using our platform to advocate with strength and efficacy. But we can’t do it alone—and we can’t wait. The financial investment you make now will help turn strategy into impact. You will give BCNA the momentum to move faster, reach further, and make a lasting difference for those living with breast cancer, their loved ones, and the systems that support them. We invite you to share your philanthropic goals with us. We’d welcome a conversation about how our priorities can align with what matters most to you. Together, we can create the momentum to change what’s next. Let’s turn our vision for the future into reality.
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Breast Cancer Network Australia
Case for Support
ABOUT BREAST CANCER NETWORK AUSTRALIA
MOMENTUM BEGINS WITH YOUR SUPPORT
Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) is the peak national organisation for Australians affected by breast cancer. For more than 25 years, we’ve drawn on our community’s experiences and our global networks to drive patient-centred care and lasting change, ensuring no one faces breast cancer alone. Our role is shaped by the people we serve. We are the voice of lived experience in national conversations— influencing policy, improving services, and advocating for compassionate and consistent care. We foster meaningful connectedness through peer and social support, helping people feel seen, heard and understood, and experience a sense of belonging. We deliver trusted, evidence-based information and support that empowers people to make decisions and navigate their unique experience with clarity and confidence. Founded by Lyn Swinburne AO in 1998, BCNA was born out of a powerful vision—that the voices of those affected by breast cancer must be heard and drive change. That vision still guides us today. From research and advocacy to diagnosis, treatment and beyond, BCNA walks alongside everyone on the breast cancer journey, every step of the way. We are here to listen, guide, support—and create the momentum to shape what comes next.
BREAST CANCER ISN’T DONE YET: 1 IN 7 WOMEN WILL BE DIAGNOSED IN THEIR LIFETIME 9 WOMEN DIE EVERY DAY FROM THE DISEASE RATES ARE RISING AS OUR POPULATION GROWS AND AGES
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Breast Cancer Network Australia
CONTACT US Claire Sarson
Philanthropy Manager e csarson@bcna.org.au
BREAST CANCER NETWORK AUSTRALIA
t 1800 500 258 w bcna.org.au
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