In a groundbreaking call to action, the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) is rallying workplaces across the nation to join forces in defeating the country’s most commonly diagnosed cancer—prostate cancer. Through its ambitious 2025 PCFA-Team initiative, the organization urges businesses to champion fundraising and awareness efforts, paving the way for a future free from prostate cancer deaths.
With prostate cancer affecting one in five Australian men and claiming the lives of 11 men daily, the urgency for action has never been greater. Every 20 minutes, an Australian man receives the devastating news of a prostate cancer diagnosis, underscoring the critical need for community-driven solutions.
The Workplace Advantage: A Catalyst for Change
Anne Savage, CEO of PCFA, emphasized the transformative role workplaces can play in tackling this national health crisis.
“Workplaces are uniquely positioned to drive meaningful change,” Savage stated. “Through engagement, we can openly discuss the prevalence of prostate cancer, promote early detection, and extend crucial support to affected individuals and their families.”
The PCFA-Team initiative empowers organizations to take a proactive stance by hosting fundraisers, honouring loved ones through memorial pages, and fostering open conversations about health and well-being. The ultimate goal? To mobilize collective action and significantly reduce the toll of prostate cancer on Australian families.
Achievements That Inspire Action
The PCFA’s impact to date speaks volumes about the power of collective effort. Community-driven fundraising has enabled the organization to invest $70 million into groundbreaking research, fund 110 specialist prostate cancer nurses, and deliver vital support programs to two-thirds of newly diagnosed men.
Savage highlighted the importance of continuing this momentum:
“Every dollar raised by workplaces contributes to advancements in research, improved early detection, and critical support for families. Together, we can create a future where no man or family suffers the anguish of a prostate cancer diagnosis.”
A Workplace Success Story: Ports North Leads the Charge
Ports North in Cairns, Queensland, is a shining example of workplace leadership in the fight against prostate cancer. Each year, the organization dedicates a month to raising awareness and funds, with initiatives like the Big Aussie Barbie and staff donning blue high-vis shirts to symbolize their commitment.
Rick Goffin, Manager of Port Services at Ports North, shared his connection to the cause:
“Two and a half years ago, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Thanks to surgery, radiation, and ongoing hormone treatments, I’ve been able to fight back. The support of family, colleagues, and the PCFA has been invaluable.”
Goffin’s experience resonates deeply within the Ports North community, where nearly every staff member has been touched by prostate cancer in some way. His message to other organizations is clear:
“If we can make a difference, so can you. Join the PCFA-Team and help us change lives.”
How Workplaces Can Get Involved
Getting involved with the PCFA team is simple and impactful. Here’s how workplaces can contribute:
- Register a Fundraiser: Create your unique event to support the cause at fundraise.pcfa.org.au.
- Honour a Loved One: Set up a memorial fundraising page in tribute to a friend, family member, or colleague at fundraise.pcfa.org.au/fundraise/inmemory.
- Raise Awareness: Host educational sessions or awareness campaigns to promote early detection and support.
Workplaces can inspire action, spark conversations, and mobilize their communities in the fight against prostate cancer.
The Path Ahead: A Future Without Prostate Cancer
Despite significant progress, the battle against prostate cancer is far from over. Nearly 4,000 Australian men lose their lives to the disease each year, and achieving zero deaths will require unwavering commitment from every sector of society.
“No man or his family deserves to endure the pain of a prostate cancer diagnosis,” Savage reiterated. “By promoting health and well-being in the workplace, organizations can make a tangible difference in our shared fight against this devastating disease.”
The PCFA remains steadfast in its mission to fund innovative research, provide survivorship resources, and connect patients with life-changing support. Through workplace contributions, the foundation aims to turn the tide on prostate cancer and build a brighter future for all Australians.
Take Action Today
For more information about joining the PCFA Team or to speak with representatives, contact the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia at 1800 22 00 99 or visit www.pcfa.org.au. Together, Australian workplaces can lead the charge against prostate cancer—one conversation, one fundraiser, and one life at a time.
Written by: Kanda Limw
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