Funding the research
that saves lives
The Daniela Dwyer Foundation is committed to saving lives by advancing brain cancer diagnosis and treatment through research, innovation, clinician education, and improved patient access to life-saving technologies.
Why It's So Important
#1
Kills more Australians under 40 than any other cancer
8%
Three year survival rate for Glioblastoma
1%
Survival rate improvement in the last 30 years
5 Hours
An Australian is diagnosed every 5 hours
<5%
Of government cancer research funding goes to brain cancer
Our Mission
Fighting brain cancer
through research
Brain cancer kills more Australians under 40 than any other cancer and more children than any other disease. Yet survival rates have increased by just 1% in the last 30 years.
The Daniela Dwyer Foundation was established in 2022 following the passing of Daniela Dwyer, who lost her battle with aggressive brain cancer just 11 months after diagnosis. We fund critical research to improve early detection and treatment — so others have the chance Daniela didn't.
Read Daniela's Story
Research Funding
From laboratory
to lifesaving
To date, DDF has funded $250,000 in research grants — directly supporting groundbreaking brain cancer research and bringing new diagnostic and treatment initiatives closer to reality for patients and families.
Our most recent grant recipient, Professor Sudha Rao from QIMR Berghofer, has created a groundbreaking Digital Liquid Biopsy Platform for real-time monitoring of cancer treatment and patient response. A clinical trial in hospitals in Queensland, New South Wales and Canberra is currently underway for this technology, paving the way for TGA approval and a national roll-out.
Daniela Dwyer Fellowships
$250,000
In research grants to date
Upcoming Events
Attend. Connect. Fund breakthroughs.
Our events bring people together to raise funds for brain cancer research and to build a community that refuses to accept the status quo.
Grey Matter Gala 2026
TicketsPerth Convention & Exhibition Centre
Saturday 10 October 2026
A prestigious black-tie evening with purpose — dinner, entertainment, auctions, and real impact.
Learn more
Hosting an event?
Fundraise for DDF
From workplace giving to community events, we can help you turn a great idea into real research funding.
Get in touch
Get Involved
Volunteer with Us
Lend your time and skills to help run our events, support our campaigns, and make a hands-on difference in the fight against brain cancer.
Register your interestLatest News
Making Headlines
Taylor Bow Shares Daniela’s Legacy on 6PR
DDF Director Taylor Bow joined 6PR radio host Jamie Burnett to discuss the Foundation’s expanding mission — from research funding to clinician education and compassionate patient access.
DDF at Head to the Hill 2026
This year, DDF will participate as an Advocate in BTAA’s Head to the Hill at Parliament House, Canberra, on 14 October — sharing Daniela’s story and advocating for three key priorities for the brain cancer community.
Time to Order Your Daniela’s Spirit Dahlia
Order your 'Daniela’s Spirit' dahlia tubers — a stunning bloom named in honour of Daniela, bright, bold, and full of life. Available now through Hansford’s Dahlias.
Team DD Hits the Road Again for an Epic Shitbox Rally Adventure
Long-time supporters Di Hartle and Matt Scoble completed another unforgettable Shitbox Rally, taking their trusty car Alby from Mildura to Townsville in June — carrying Daniela's memory every kilometre.
Partnerships
Partner with us to fund
real outcomes
Corporate support powers our events and accelerates research. Partnering with the Daniela Dwyer Foundation is a clear way to deliver meaningful community impact.
Event sponsorship
Brand presence, corporate tables, and recognition across our channels.
In-kind support
Auction items and experiences that raise critical funds.
Workplace giving
A simple, consistent way to support research year-round.
Strategic partnerships
Collaborate on innovation, education, and measurable impact.
Our Affiliates and Partners
Our Community
People making a difference
Stay in the Loop
Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on our projects, upcoming events, and how your support is making a difference in the fight against brain cancer.
Every donation brings us
closer to a cure
Your contribution directly funds brain cancer research at QIMR Berghofer. All donations over $2 are tax-deductible.
Donate