With gratitude, the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre (VCCC) Alliance commends the outgoing Victorian Minister for Health, Mary-Anne Thomas MP, for her ongoing commitment to supporting cancer research, education and care across Victoria during her term.
Minister Thomas championed collaborative, system-wide approaches to improving cancer outcomes during her tenure as Minister for Health, which aligns closely with the VCCC Alliance’s strategy and programs.
A defining moment of this support came in 2023, when Minister Thomas officially launched the VCCC Alliance’s Data Connect program, an Australian-first linking primary care, hospital and cancer registry data to drive better research and patient outcomes. She has since continued to advocate for the initiative, returning as a keynote guest at subsequent showcases and reinforcing the importance of data-driven approaches to enhance cancer care.
Interim VCCC Alliance Chief Executive Craig Zanker acknowledged Minister Thomas’ efforts in supporting cancer. “Minister Thomas is a fearless champion of equity, data and lived experience voices in cancer research, treatment and care. Under her term as Health Minister, these three areas have made tangible impacts on the cancer experiences of all Victorians,” he said.
Minister Thomas has played an active part in key VCCC Alliance events and milestones, including the annual VCCC Alliance Awards where she acknowledged the dedication and impact of the cancer workforce and reaffirmed the Victorian Government’s commitment to improving cancer outcomes for all Victorians. Her recognition of the VCCC Alliance as a ‘critical partner’ reflects a deep understanding of the power of collaboration in delivering meaningful system-wide impact.
She has been an avid advocate of the VCCC Alliance’s workforce, education and lived experience programs. Her leadership has also advanced initiatives focused on equity of access, particularly for underserved communities, with the hope that no Victorian is left behind on their cancer journey.
The VCCC Alliance wishes Minister Thomas the best in her next chapter and looks forward to continuing this strong partnership with the Victorian Government.
