Natasha Griggs (Solomon, Country Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise to speak on an important women's health initiative taking place right across the country. February marks Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, a national campaign aimed at raising awareness of the risks and symptoms associated with ovarian cancer. The campaign also aims to raise much-needed funds for Ovarian Cancer Australia's support and research programs.

Ovarian Cancer Australia is a not-for-profit organisation founded by people directly affected by the disease. Since 2001 it has worked tirelessly to ensure that every woman knows the symptoms of ovarian cancer. Sadly, more than 1,200 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer this year in Australia—that is three women every day, or one woman every 11 hours. Not much has been spoken about ovarian cancer. In fact, it has been labelled a 'silent killer' because there is no early detection test or screening, so awareness is imperative. Throughout February, Ovarian Cancer Australia invites the community to host an 'afternoon teal' or 'cockteal' with friends and family to help spread awareness of the disease and its symptoms.

This month I will be supporting my good friend and Northern Territory Ovarian Cancer Australia ambassador Alice Burton to spread awareness of the disease. A 'cockteal party' has been organised for Friday, 24 February in Darwin and women from across the Top End have been invited. Teal entertainment and raffles will be among the highlights, and our aim is to inform women of the importance of recognising the warning signs of ovarian cancer.