Canberra it’s time to show us your personali-tea!

For more than 30 years, Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea has been one of Cancer Council’s most cherished fundraising initiatives, uniting millions of Australians in support of people affected by cancer. The event continues to inspire families, schools, and workplaces to connect over morning tea while raising vital funds for cancer research, prevention, and support services.  

Last year, almost 400 Canberrans took part, each event shaped by their own unique stories. From primary schools and friendship groups to retirement communities and workplaces, people of all ages and backgrounds came together with generosity and purpose. Their collective efforts reflected the strength of community spirit and a shared commitment to make real impact.  

With almost 1 in 2 Australians diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85, it’s this reality that motivates supporters across the ACT to host their own events and stand together in support of those affected.  

“Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea has become part of the annual calendar for many workplaces and people in the community” said Verity Hawkins, CEO at Cancer Council ACT.  

“But this is more than a chance to enjoy some tea, snacks and good company – your fundraising efforts support the hard work of Cancer Council ACT. Whether you’re hosting, attending, or donating online, every contribution makes a difference in alleviating the impact of cancer in our local community.”  

Throughout May and June, participants across the ACT will host their morning teas – with every dollar raised helping to fund life-saving cancer research, essential support services, and prevention programs delivered right here in Canberra. 

-ENDS-  

NOTES TO EDITORS: 

What: Cancer Council ACT’s Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea

When: Thursday 21 May 2026 (with events held throughout May and June)  
Where: Anywhere that suits you  

Who: Anyone across ACT and its region can register to host a morning tea to support people affected by cancer. 

Registrations: www.biggestmorningtea.com.au or email [email protected] 

ADDITIONAL FACTS: 

• One Australian is diagnosed with cancer approximately every five minutes, the length of an average tea break. 

• Almost one in two Australians will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85. 

• It’s estimated that over 169,500 Australians were diagnosed with cancer last year – that’s more than 460 per day. 

• It’s estimated that over 1.4 million Australians have either survived a diagnosis or are currently living with cancer. 

How morning tea’s make a difference 

• Funds raised by Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea helps Cancer Council ACT fund local life-saving cancer research, prevention and support programs. 

• Tackling cancer takes all of us. That’s why we need your help to raise vital funds, so we can be there for our ACT community affected by cancer and continue getting closer to a cancer free future. 

What Aussie donations can do 

• $10 – Connect someone newly diagnosed with cancer to trusted online support and vital resources. 

• $25-Can help fund a conversation with one of our specialised Supportive Care Team, to provide critical support and information to Canberrans affected by cancer. 

• $120 - Helps ensure our life-changing health and wellbeing program, ENHANCE Wellbeing, remains free of charge to those affected by cancer in our local area; providing connection, support and gentle movement. 

• $205 - Can help Canberrans facing hair loss from cancer treatment regain confidence and comfort with a wig or hat. Funding helps ensure we can continue to provide the first item of headwear for free. 

• $1,000 – Could fund world-class ACT-based research that saves lives and improves outcomes for cancer patients.