What’s happening?
Professor Jeffrey Dunn AO, a world-renowned leader in cancer control and Chair of Cancer Survivorship at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) in Toowoomba, has been named a 2025 Queensland Great. The award was presented during the Queensland Day celebrations at Customs House in Brisbane on 5 June 2025, honouring his outstanding contributions to cancer research, advocacy, and patient-centred care.
Why it matters
For over 40 years, Professor Dunn has transformed cancer care in Queensland and globally. His work has driven major legislative change, secured critical funding, and pioneered groundbreaking support programs. In his words, “For me, the greatest achievement of my career has been the unflinching promotion of patient-centred care, so that no patient walks alone with cancer.”
Notably, his leadership has improved survival rates and quality of life for countless cancer patients, particularly in regional Queensland.
Local Impact
As a UniSQ-based academic, Professor Dunn has placed Toowoomba on the global stage through his leadership roles, including serving as President of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) from 2022 to 2024. Despite facing his own battle with a rare high-risk cancer, which required a stem cell transplant, he continues to lead major cancer survivorship research, inspiring Queenslanders and global health professionals alike.
UniSQ Vice-Chancellor Professor Karen Nelson said,
“Professor Jeff Dunn has changed the face of cancer care in Queensland and beyond. His leadership, compassion, and commitment to supporting people affected by cancer exemplify what it means to be a Queensland Great.”
By the Numbers
-
Over $100 million in funding facilitated for cancer control in Queensland.
-
Pioneered an increase in cancer survival from 45% in 1989 to 66% today.
-
Brought global health conferences to Queensland with an estimated economic value of $50 million.
Zoom In
Professor Dunn’s key contributions include:
-
Championing the world’s most progressive tobacco control legislation.
-
Establishing Queensland’s first dedicated cancer helpline, counselling service, and community-based cancer research centre.
-
Securing access to vital cancer registry data for Queensland researchers, contributing to significant improvements in cancer outcomes.
-
Advocating for regional cancer services and driving legislative reforms that have directly benefited Queenslanders in rural areas.
Reflecting on his career, he said, “While my life’s path has been in cancer control, my motivating passion has always been to contribute where I can to eliminating pain and suffering, harnessing a restless sense of hope that our individual efforts can make a difference for the collective.”
Zoom Out
Internationally, Professor Dunn has published more than 200 research papers and is ranked among the top 2% of scientists worldwide in oncology and clinical medicine. His UICC presidency placed Queensland and Toowoomba at the forefront of global cancer advocacy.
The Queensland Great award is commemorated with a bronze plaque at Roma Street Parkland, ensuring his legacy is permanently recognised.
What To Look For Next?
Professor Dunn continues to lead a major translational program in cancer survivorship at UniSQ and the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. His ongoing research and advocacy are expected to drive further innovations in cancer care across Queensland and beyond.
