Research from the University of Wollongong that focuses on pancreatic cancer treatment has won the People’s Choice Award in the Problem Solver category at the 2025 Shaping Australia Awards following a national vote that attracted more than 42,500 votes.
Pancreatic cancer remains one of the toughest cancers to treat, with survival rates notably low and most diagnoses made at an advanced stage. Researchers have developed a biodegradable micro‑implant system designed to deliver a combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy directly into pancreatic tumours rather than through the bloodstream. This targeted method aims to reduce harmful side effects while improving the way the immune system engages with the tumour.
The People’s Choice Award reflects strong community interest in research that addresses complex health challenges and the profound personal impact of pancreatic cancer on families and communities across Australia.
The implantable approach at the centre of the project has shown encouraging results in advanced laboratory models, where it has slowed tumour growth, extended survival and preserved gut microbial health compared with standard systemic therapy.
Researchers leading the work emphasise the goal of progressing from laboratory studies to clinical evaluation, with the hope of offering people with pancreatic cancer a treatment option that may be both more tolerable and more effective. They also note broader efforts in the field, including initiatives aimed at improving earlier diagnosis and screening, which could help improve outcomes alongside new treatment strategies.
Judges and public voters at the Shaping Australia Awards highlighted the project’s potential to advance next‑generation care and position Australia as a contributor to global efforts against the disease.
People affected by pancreatic cancer and advocacy groups have welcomed attention on research and pilot programmes that aim to address late detection and poor survival associated with the disease. Additional studies, such as an upcoming pilot trial screening people with diabetes for early signs of pancreatic cancer, are underway in other parts of the country.
While there are no major new treatments yet approved for widespread clinical use, the increased public focus on innovative research and early‑stage trials suggests growing momentum in tackling one of the most challenging forms of cancer in Australia and beyond.
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