We’re making a difference
At Rare Cancers Australia, we’re changing the story of a rare cancer diagnosis. With support from our community, industry, partners and stakeholders, together we are having an impact for the patients of today and tomorrow.
For those currently facing a cancer diagnosis, we’re a steadfast ally, standing side by side through diagnosis, treatment and beyond. What matters to you, matters to us, and our limitless support leaves no stone unturned in the search for ways to ease some of the challenges that come with a rare cancer.
Read our 2025 Rare Impact Report
Our patients
Each year, the number of patients we support grows, supporting almost 2,000 patients and families in the past year. Our work has been recognised with $4.36 million in funding over four years under the Government’s Australian Cancer Nursing and Navigation Program, to expand our navigation service.
Our navigation team and support programs provided tailored assistance to more patients and families than ever before — connecting thousands through peer networks, delivering critical crisis support, and helping almost 1,000 mothers balance treatment with motherhood through the Mummy’s Wish program.
Our advocacy
We continue to amplify the voices of the rare community and shine a light on the inequities facing those with rare and less common cancers. We do this through targeted advocacy, building relationships with decision-makers, collaboration with a range of stakeholders, and through signature campaigns such as Rare Cancers Awareness Day and CanForum.
In 2025, our advocacy gained new ground, shaping the national conversation on equitable access and genomic-led care. Key milestones included:
- Our first national Cancer Lived Experience Survey, amplifying the voices of nearly 2,500 Australians.
- The launch of our landmark report Now it’s personal: access and equity for all in Parliament House alongside 29 patient advocates.
- Being commissioned to develop Australia’s first Optimal Care Pathway for rare and less common cancers.
- Holding CanForum25, Australia’s largest cancer patient advocacy event, in the great Hall of Parliament House with 300 attendees from across the sector.
Our fundraising
We couldn’t do what we do without the support and generosity of individuals, communities, and partners across Australia. Every contribution big or small – sends a powerful message to those affected by rare cancer: you are not alone. We are uniting a community to raise awareness, vital funds and a groundswell of support. Individually we may be rare, but together we are many.
Our signature fundraising event, the Kosi Challenge, isn’t just about reaching the summit of Australia’s highest peak – it’s an experience where supporters can come together to meet, share stories, and walk side-by-side with rare cancer patients and their families. In March 2025, the event raised the highest amount yet, an incredible $678,000, all of which goes directly towards RCA’s patient support navigation service.
In 2025 alone, community groups and individual fundraisers raised $1,117,000 in support of RCA, and over $857,000 was donated towards our established Patient Treatment Funds, helping patients manage the high associated costs that come with a rare cancer diagnosis.
