New Research Into Brain Cancer's Impact on Society

BTAA announces new research into the staggering economic burden of Brain Cancer on society, detailing the burden of disease and outlining key initiatives in research and support that can make a difference.

Brain Tumour Alliance Australia

The national brain tumour patient and carer support organisation in Australia

Head to the Hill

It brings together patients, carers and advocates to meet Members and Senators and to put brain cancer on the national agenda.

About BTAA

Brain Tumour Alliance Australia (BTAA) is the national brain tumour patient and carer support organisation in Australia. It was established in late 2008 by a group of brain tumour patients, and current and former carers. While welcoming the advice and input of specialists, BTAA seeks to represent the brain tumour community from the viewpoint of the patient, their carers, and their families.

Brain Cancer Information

Understanding brain cancer can feel overwhelming, especially at the beginning. This section provides clear, reliable information covering types of brain tumours, grading, diagnosis, treatment pathways, and what it means to live with the condition—along with key facts and insights to help you feel more informed and prepared.

Support and Resources

Support looks different for everyone, and BTAA is here to help you find what you need. Through our peer support helpline, educational patient forums, and connections to trusted support groups and organisations, we offer pathways to information, understanding and community.

Advocacy & Awareness

BTAA connects people, organisations, and government to foster collaboration and build awareness. We educate the community and inform decision-makers to shape policy and better outcomes.

Get Involved

There are many meaningful ways to get involved with BTAA. Whether you choose to make a donation, volunteer your time, become a member, share your story, or support our awareness efforts, every contribution helps strengthen our community and drive impact for those affected by brain tumours.

Latest News

Stay up to date with the latest news, events and stories from the brain tumour community. This section features updates from BTAA, highlights of past and upcoming events, access to BTAA and IBTA magazines, and personal stories that share experiences, insights and inspiration from those affected.

HEAD TO THE HILL 2025

Head to the Hill 2026 – Save the Date

Head to the Hill 2026 will be held on Wednesday, 14 October 2026 in the Great Hall at Parliament House in Canberra.

This national advocacy event brings together patients, carers, families, clinicians, researchers and supporters from across Australia to share their stories and call for urgent action on brain cancer — the deadliest cancer for children and young adults.

More information coming soon.

LATEST NEWS

Head to the Hill – October 2025

Head to the Hill – October 2025

Head to the Hill 2025 saw patients, carers, clinicians and researchers come together to share their stories and advocate directly to federal MPs about the urgent needs of the brain tumour community. From personal stories, calls for funding and support from MPs, the day was full of powerful speeches and insights. Keynote speakers included Professor Richard Scolyer, Gail O’Brien and the Hon Mark Butler, Minister for Health.

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EVENTS

Adelaide Convention Centre

Patient Education and Information Forum. Adelaide 2026

The BTAA Patient Education and Information Forum will be held in Adelaide on 25 August 2026 as a satellite event of the 18th COGNO Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM). This forum provides a valuable opportunity for patients, carers, families and supporters to hear from...
Head to the Hill Logo

Head to the Hill 2024

The 2024 BTAA Head to the Hill event is being held inside the beautiful open courtyards of Australia’s Parliament House on Wednesday 20 November at 8:00am-12:00pm. Join us at this important national event to help us raise awareness of the horrific effects and...

PERSONAL STORIES

Jane’s Story – “I Don’t Know”

I DON’T KNOW - Jane Whitehead Death When will I die? How will I die? What happens after I die ... Wait. I will address Death in its rightful place - at the end of this unfortunate, but true story.Let me start at the beginning.Diagnosis Astrocytoma, IDH-mutant, WHO...

Kristin’s Story

“You think your nurse is dying?” exclaimed my 19-year-old son, who was at my bedside in the Royal Melbourne Hospital ICU in early 2020.

Catherine

Catherine’s Story

My daughter, Catherine was an avid reader of the BTAA e-News and Magazine, constantly looking for new treatments and information on the latest research.