Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) is an Australian not-for-profit organisation which funds research into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of all types of cancer. It provides multimillion-dollar grants for innovative research equipment, technology, and infrastructure development to support the work of Australian cancer scientists and clinicians.
History and structure Established in 1984 by businessman and philanthropist, the late Sir Peter Abeles AC. Lady (Sonia) McMahon was also a founding Board member until her death in 2010. A Board of Trustees, composed of prominent and influential Australians govern the organisation, headed by chair, Tim Cooper AM. A Medical Research Advisory Committee (MRAC) comprising Australian and international cancer experts, assesses all grant applications, shortlists applicants for a panel interview and advises the ACRF Board of Trustees on which grant applications will have the highest impact in improving cancer prevention, diagnosis and/or treatment. Membership of the MRAC is authorised by the National Health and Medical Research Council. The current co-chairs of the MRAC are Michelle Haber AM and professor Ricky Johnstone.
Funding The Foundation awards grants between $1.5 million and $10 million, based on scientific excellence, a cohesive research program, qualified team and strong governance. To date, $209+ million has been awarded through 93 grants to 44 research institutes, universities and hospitals across Australia, for research into all cancers. ACRF is privately funded — it receives no government funding. Financial statements are publicly available on the Foundation's website.
Project funding approved
References
External links The Australian Cancer Research Foundation