Since its launch in 2021, the Jreissati Pancreatic Centre has been driven by a single, unwavering purpose: to deepen understanding of pancreatic cancer and improve outcomes for patients and their families.

Built on the pillars of patient care, research, education and community, the Centre was established to challenge what was possible, and to refuse to accept the status quo.

A Centre Like No Other

The Jreissati Pancreatic Cancer Centre opened on 18 February 2021 as Australia’s first centre dedicated solely to pancreatic disease. Within days, the first patients were treated, a clear indication of the urgent need for specialised, coordinated care.

From the outset, research was embedded at the heart of the Centre’s mission. Twenty research studies were launched in the first year alone, including clinical trials exploring innovative treatments such as NanoKnife and immunotherapies. At the same time, initiatives like My Care Plan were introduced to help patients and families navigate what can be an overwhelming diagnosis with greater clarity and support.

Building Momentum Through Knowledge and Community

In 2022, the Centre expanded its focus on early detection and education. More than 1,000 3D pancreas models were distributed to general practitioners, supporting learning, awareness and earlier diagnosis in the community. That same year saw the first Lunch by the Yarra, which quickly became the Centre’s flagship fundraising event, uniting the community behind a shared commitment to progress.

By 2023, innovation in treatment and research continued to accelerate. New techniques were introduced, including the use of injected radiation particles to shrink pancreatic tumours prior to surgeryTo further support patients, families and clinicians, the Centre hosted its inaugural GI for GPs Symposium and pancreaticcentre.org.au was launched as a trusted national resource.

Leading Advances in Care and Research

The pace of progress continued in 2024, with Victorian firsts delivered in pancreatic surgery and diagnostics, including robotic tumour enucleation and SpyGlass™ technology. The Australasian Pancreatic Cyst Registry was conceptualised to improve understanding of pancreatic cysts and help prevent progression to cancer. Education remained a priority, with the GI for GPs Symposium attracting national and international delegates and strengthening knowledge across the healthcare system.

In 2025, the Centre’s impact reached a new national and global scale. APRISE, the Centre‑led national pancreatic cancer screening study, expanded to more than 30 hospitals across Australia. The Amplia Therapeutics ACCENT trial delivered a rare complete pathological response in a patient with stage IV pancreatic cancer, offering powerful proof of what emerging therapies can achieve.

That same year, Melbourne hosted the Global Pancreas Summit, where the Centre proudly participated as a Platinum Sponsor – further elevating the Centre’s international profile and reinforcing its leadership role.

The opening of the purpose‑built Jreissati Pancreatic Cancer Centre building provided a dedicated home for care, research and collaboration, and a tangible symbol of shared determination to cure pancreatic cancer.

Fund. Fight. Cure.

As the Centre looks to 2026 and beyond, the vision remains bold and unwavering.

To fight pancreatic cancer, funding is essential, funding that enables research, drives innovation and gives patients access to new and emerging treatment options. When pancreatic cancer is diagnosed earlier, and when care is backed by discovery and collaboration, real and lasting change becomes possible.

Every advance brings us closer to the ultimate goal: curing pancreatic cancer.

This future will only be realised with the support of our entire community.

Further information