The AMRF mission is to significantly contribute to the prevention, early detection and treatment of melanoma in Australia by funding research towards improved outcomes.
Our vision looking forward
The AMRF proactively seeks grant submissions from recognised melanoma research organisations across Australia to support researchers and specific research projects.
The AMRF aims to be recognised nationally for its collaborative approach to funding research into the prevention, early detection and treatment of skin cancer and melanoma.
The AMRF supports early detection, prevention and education programs.
Our objectives
- To provide funding for research in clinical and laboratory environments.
- To provide funding for treatments that improve the care and treatment for people affected by malignant melanoma.
- To promote translation of the information obtained from research into clinical practice.
- To become an acknowledged leader in funding of research and education for melanoma cancer treatments.
- To raise awareness of the Australian Melanoma Research Foundation brand.
Our values
- Support research with measurable outcomes
- Ensure ethical practices in all our operations and in the research we support
- Collaborate and share information.
Our board members are focused on making changes so each year in Australia, fewer Australians will be diagnosed with melanoma.
Currently each year in Australia, close to 17,000 new cases are diagnosed.
Click here for our Strategy and Governance document.
Our Case for Support 2024
You can download our Case for Support 2024 document at the link below (2.8MB PDF file).
Our people
Ian R Higgins MAICD Chief Executive
Ian has previously held the positions of Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the New Zealand Trustees for the Australian and Zealand Intensive Care Foundation (ANZICF).
Prior to these roles he held a number of senior fundraising and philanthropic assignments in various organisations.
- Fundraising and Bequests Manager, National Gallery of Victoria
- Director of Foundation, Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA)
- Director of Foundation and Executive Officer, Western Health, Melbourne
- Philanthropy Manager, Scope Australia
Ian’s earlier business career involved working for Qantas and Optus. Senior roles at Qantas included Regional Director Victoria, Regional Director Asia and Japan, Head of Product Development and Assistant to the Chairman and to the Chief Executive. At Optus he was Head of Customer Services.
Throughout his fundraising career he has been actively involved with the Fundraising Institute of Australia and Philanthropy Australia, presenting and attending at conferences and workshops.
Kim Thackray Fundraising & Administration Co-Ordinator
Kim joined AMRF in 2013 to assist with fundraising events and now plays a major role in organising our annual major fundraiser Melanoma March in conjunction with MIA. In addition to her role of creating events, Kim is responsible for the day to day administration with a particular emphasis on being the first point of contact for AMRF, she is in direct communication with donors and continues to build strong relationships with our partners. Her role has expanded to include publicity and marketing, along with seeking fundraising opportunities and overseeing them.
Kim’s background in public relations and promotions has proved an asset to AMRF and has achieved great results with the cross promotions and collaborations which includes monitoring Grants and seeking Sponsorships for AMRF.