Get involved and help Queenslanders living with cancer by volunteering. Volunteers are the heart of our organisation. Join us to make a greater impact and connect with like-minded people.
Every contribution helps support those living with cancer. Whether a one-off donation or monthly gift, your support ensures funding stability for long-term goals and future generations.
Leave a legacy by including a gift in your Will, starting a tribute page for a loved one, or funding a research grant for early-career cancer researchers driving clinical innovations.
Organise a fundraising event in your community, either as a team or an individual. You can join one of our existing fundraising events or you might like to come up with your own way.
When organisations work together, we can have a greater impact for every Queenslander going through cancer and help amplify our message for all Australians.
However you get involved, you’re making a direct impact on the lives of Queenslanders affected by cancer. See the results of what we’ve all achieved.
Contributions go towards world-class research, prevention programs and support service.
At Cancer Council Queensland, we recently farewelled Andrew Donne, who leaves behind an incredible legacy as CEO. Throughout our 60-year history, we have remained dedicated to supporting Queenslanders affected by cancer, and thanks to Andrew’s vision and the unwavering support of our community, we are now making a greater impact than ever before.
We now welcome Matt Gardiner who has been appointed as the new Cancer Council Queensland CEO.
With over 15 years’ experience as a senior leader in the not-for-profit sector, Matt brings both passion and purpose to his work. Driven by a deep, personal commitment to social justice and equity, he is dedicated to ensuring every Queenslander impacted by cancer, has a strong advocate by their side.
Matt Gardiner’s passion for community service began at a young age, with some of his earliest memories involve volunteering with his parents in the community.
“I still vividly remember spending time with Mum volunteering at the Sporting Wheelies, the Queensland sporting association for wheelchair users” he says.
However, Matt didn’t always imagine himself working in the not-for-profit sector.
“At school, I wanted to be a psychologist or a carpenter!”
“My undergraduate degree in psychology ultimately led me to work in behavioural interventions in education and child protection, and then counselling work in various areas. I’ve run medical practices, and clinical mental health, accommodation, domestic violence, child protection and clinical disability services.”
“More recently, I was CEO of 54 Reasons, where we delivered tangible support on the ground as part of Save the Children Australia”
As a former counsellor, Matt is deeply passionate about enhancing people’s wellbeing, with a strong focus on psychological and emotional health.
“I’m aware of the incredible privilege we have here at Cancer Council Queensland in partnering with people during such a pivotal time in their lives.”
“Cancer Council Queensland also has a vital role in advocating for equitable access to prevention, treatment, and care.’
‘Many Queenslanders face significant barriers, and we have a responsibility to continue to address this and make sure no one is left behind.”
With Matt now at the helm, Cancer Council Queensland enters a new chapter – one built on compassion, advocacy and a steadfast commitment to every Queenslander impacted by cancer. Driven by the belief nobody should face cancer alone, Matt’s leadership will help break down barriers to better cancer care and support, and push for greater equity, whilst we continue to conduct life-saving research.
To people volunteering, donating or fundraising for Cancer Council Queensland, Matt makes this promise: “We will never take you for granted. You have my personal commitment to be accountable to you.”
