World Cancer Day Sydney 2026

The theme for World Cancer Day is United by Unique. In 2026 we are exploring what changes are needed to achieve people-centred care with the idea that ‘Your Story Will Change Minds’, to shift the conversation, highlight the gaps, and begin to change how care is seen.

Key Information
Date. Wednesday, 4 February 2026
Location. Strangers’ Function Room, NSW Parliament House
Time. 9:30 am – 2:00 pm

Opening Remark
Professor Tracey O’Brien. NSW Chief Cancer Officer & CEO Cancer Institute NSW

Confirmed Keynote Speakers
Eric Yeung. President, CanRevive Inc.
Professor Deborah Bateson. Professor of Practice, Cancer Elimination Collaboration, The University of Sydney.
Professor Reema Harrison. Stream Lead, Healthcare Engagement and Equity Research, Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University.
Associate Professor Cherry Koh. Colorectal Surgeon, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Surgical Outcomes Research Centre (SOuRCe), The University of Sydney.
Dr Rob Zielinski. Medical Oncologist, Head of Cancer Services, Orange Hospital; Director of Cancer Clinical Trials Unit, Western Sydney University

Panel
Clinical Professor Daniel Steffens (facilitator). Director Surgical Outcomes Research Centre (SOuRCe), The University of Sydney.
Professor Meera Agar. Director, Centre for Improving Palliative, Aged & Chronic Care through Clinical Research & Translation, University of Technology Sydney.
Professor Kirsten McCaffery. Director, Sydney Health Literacy Lab; Director of Policy & Prevention, Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney.
Christine Whittall. Executive Officer, Brain Tumour Alliance Australia.
Professor Maree Toombs. Deputy Dean Indigenous, School of Medicine & Health, UNSW Sydney.