Congratulations to Professor Karen Canfell, Companion of the Order of Australia

Professor Karen Canfell AC, Director of The Daffodil Centre, a joint venture between Cancer Council NSW and The University of Sydney, was awarded with the Companion of the Order of Australia in the King’s Birthday Honours on 10 June 2024.

The Companion of the Order of Australia is one of the highest civil awards that can be granted, recognising “eminent achievement and merit of the highest degree in service to Australia or to humanity at large”.

Professor Sarah Hosking, CEO, Cancer Council NSW said: “This is an extraordinary achievement and I am delighted to congratulate Karen, for whom this award is a fitting recognition given her outstanding achievements in cancer control in Australia and globally.

“Karen’s work has influenced many of the reforms in policy and practice that have seen cancer mortality rates fall by more than 20% over the past two decades, through her research and the work of her students and team members, many of whom are now national leaders across the spectrum of cancer research.

“Research led by Karen is also behind the national and global strategy to tackle cervical cancer with vaccines, screening programs, and treatment. Modelling by Karen’s team at the Daffodil Centre is the basis for a 2035 target to eliminate cervical cancer in Australia, announced last year, which will probably lead to us being the first nation in the world to achieve this landmark goal.

“We are so fortunate to have such a renowned global leader as Director of the Daffodil Centre. Everyone at Cancer Council is so proud to work alongside such an exceptional mentor and role-model who not only inspires us, but cancer researchers around the world.”