About the Profession

Medical oncology is an exciting profession for physicians looking to make a difference, both locally and globally. Medical oncologists are doctors who have undertaken extensive specialised training in the treatment of cancer through primarily medicinal means. Many medical oncologists choose to further specialise their expertise to focus on specific cancer or tumour types.

Medical oncologists choose from a wide spectrum of professional activities in their daily work—some work in hospitals consulting and treating cancer patients, some focus on cancer research and developing clinical trials, others elect to teach and participate in cancer advocacy, while many choose to divide their work time into a variety of these activities.

Medical oncology has existed as an independent profession for over 30 years in Australia. Australian medical oncologists have been responsible for many key cancer breakthroughs, conducting research at hospitals and universities across the country. Medical oncology as a profession also provides numerous international opportunities for travel and work. Whether at the laboratory or helping patients in the clinic, medical oncologists are champions of prevention, treatment and the on-going search for the cure for cancer.