International Women’s Day

To celebrate International Women’s Day 2024, we honour the incredible women who advocate to reduce the impact of cancer in their community. Their achievements perfectly reflect the 2024 IWD theme, #InspireInclusion.

This is a fantastic opportunity for us to recognise and celebrate the amazing variety of women advocating for change. Their work directly influences policies and practices to reduce cancer risks and improve cancer care.

Caroline Raunjak: a powerful voice for quality care

Caroline Raunjak, based in Western Sydney, understands firsthand the power of quality palliative care. When her husband faced cancer, the support they received allowed him to spend his precious final days at home, surrounded by loved ones. This experience ignited something within her, as she realised

Cancer does not discriminate and Palliative and End of life care should not be determined by postcode as everyone deserves good care.

Witnessing the disparities in access to quality care set her commitment to making a difference.

Caroline is a powerful voice for change. From sharing her story to having tough conversations with Members of Parliament, advocating for increased funding for research, improved access to support and care, and affordable cancer treatment. She also volunteers at palliative care centres, provides valuable perspectives as a consumer representative, and advocates for a dedicated palliative care unit at Westmead Hospital through the “Westmead Push for Palliative Care” campaign.

Caroline’s passion is truly inspiring showing us the power of one person, driven by compassion, to make a real and lasting impact. Her dedication and impactful contributions have been recognised through various awards, including the Parramatta Citizen of the Year.

Thank you Caroline for your incredible work and for inspiring inclusion this International Women’s Day.