Women have taken out all four spots in the Jeanie Ferris Awards for their commitment to driving significant advances in equity for Australians affected by cancer. The award recipients include Lisa Briggs, Margaret Heffernan OAM, Professor Gail Garvey AM and Associate Professor Mei Ling Yap.
Established in 2013, the Jeannie Ferries Award is a prestigious honour celebrating those who have made a notable and enduring mark on cancer care, support and outcomes.
The awards were created in honour of the late Senator Jeannie Ferris, who sadly passed away from gynaecological cancer in 2007.
This week, at Parliament House, the Hon Mark Butler MP, Minister for Health and Ageing, Minister for Disability and the NDIS, named the 2025 recipients of the awards.
“By celebrating individuals who have made significant strides in this area, we are reinforcing our commitment to ensuring that every Australian, regardless of background or location, has access to high-quality cancer care,” said Butler.
Lisa Briggs
A national voice for lung cancer awareness, Briggs turned her own battle with incurable, Stage IV lung cancer into a catalyst for progress.
It’s been more than a decade since Briggs was diagnosed at just 32 years old, and she’s advocated for change ever since, including through key roles with groups like Thoracic Oncology Group Australasia, Lung Foundation Australia, Rare Cancers Australia, and ALK Positive Australia.
Briggs has driven patient-centred research and illuminated the challenges confronting those living with lung cancer, paving the way for crucial policy and systemic reforms.
On winning the Jeannie Ferris award, Briggs said it was “a powerful reminder that every time we speak up, we keep someone else’s dreams alive”.
“It also honours 10 years of life, hope, and dreams I was never promised or guaranteed, but have dedicated to rewriting what’s possible, to help build a brighter future for those living with lung cancer.”
Margaret Heffernan OAM
Over the past 33 years, Heffernan has made a significant contribution to the gynaecological cancer sector.
Her extensive work in a pro bono capacity as a survivor, consumer, advocate, educator and behavioural researcher has helped reduce disparities and inequities and empower health professionals, patients, carers, and survivors across all community sectors, particularly vulnerable populations.
Her work has also impacted hospital and treatment centre infrastructure, policy, social justice and equity. Heffernan was recognised in a 2006 Order of Australia Medal, and subsequently nationally and internationally.
On winning the Jeannie Ferris award, Heffernan said she “humbly” accepts “on behalf of the invisible ‘backroom’ of heroes who have supported my vision for better outcomes, trekked with me unconditionally over the past 33 years”.
“Jeannie’s legacy is a reminder of the power of research, education, and advocacy in saving lives. We still have quite a journey ahead. Vale Jeannie, you were a tour de force.”
Professor Gail Garvey AM
A proud Kamilaroi woman, Professor Garvey was recognised for her internationally acclaimed leadership in Indigenous health research.
With more than 30 years dedicated to improving cancer and wellbeing outcomes for Australia’s First Nations peoples, she has developed culturally safe, patient-centred tools that have transformed cancer care, founded the World Indigenous Cancer Conference, and was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia and Fellow of the Queensland Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2024.
Professor Garvey said she was “honoured to receive the 2025 Jeannie Ferris Award”.
“This recognition inspires me to continue advancing to close the gap in cancer outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through culturally safe, community-driven care.”
Professor Mei Ling Yap
A radiation oncologist and clinician researcher, Professor Mei Ling Yap was honoured for over 15 years of advancing equitable cancer care in South-Western Sydney and beyond, with a focus on culturally and linguistically diverse and socio-economically disadvantaged communities.
Her research has informed national and international cancer policy, including Australia’s first national cancer plan, and she leads global initiatives to strengthen oncology systems across the Asia-Pacific.
On winning the Jeannie Ferris award, Professor Mei Ling Yap said it “reflects a shared vision to achieve equitable outcomes for every person affected by cancer, regardless of their identity, culture, socio-economic status or postcode.”
“My work has been inspired by the people of South-Western Sydney Local Health District, who I have been privileged to provide clinical care to for over 15 years.”
“This award also acknowledges the contribution of my research colleagues and the Australian cancer control community to improving outcomes globally. I have been very fortunate to have worked with dedicated colleagues from the Asia-Pacific Radiation Oncology Special Interest Group, RANZCR as well as global partners, to improve access to radiation therapy in our region.”