Peter Mac named patients' top choice
01 August 2025
Patients have chosen Peter Mac as Australia’s “Outstanding Hospital” of 2025.
This award, announced at the 2025 Patients Australia Awards Gala last night, is based on community submissions to an expert panel.
It recognises an Australian hospital that “excels in clinical care, patient safety, and innovation, delivering exceptional outcomes for patients.”
James Fowler, Deputy Director of Patient Experience and Wellbeing, attended the gala in Melbourne to receive the award on Peter Mac's behalf.
Peter Mac nurses Hayley Beer (left) and Emma-Jane Furphy, along with James Fowler.
"At Peter Mac, the voice of patients, carers, and family members is central to everything we do – from the lab bench, to the bedside, to the Board – and this award is a recognition of that,” James told the audience.
"I’d like to thank the generous member of the public who nominate us, whoever you are!
"I’d also like to thank our register of about 350 people with lived experience of cancer who share their stories, time, and experiences to guide our work.”
Also notably, Peter Mac's Professor Michael Jefford was a finalist in the “Outstanding Specialist” category recognising exceptional expertise and contributions to patient care and research.
Professor Jefford is a medical oncologist and his roles include leading the Survivorship and Living Well After Cancer research program, in Peter Mac’s Department of Health Services Research.
Peter Mac Nurse Emma-Jane Furphy was also a finalist for “Outstanding Nurse” recognising extraordinary care, empathy, compassion, and professionalism while advocating for patient well-being.
All award recipients are listed below and read more on the Patients Australia website.
2025 Award Recipients
Patient Advocates
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Outstanding Patient Advocate: Catherine Hughes AM, Immunisation Foundation of Australia
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Outstanding Patient Carer: Marissa Tan RN
Patient-Focused Services
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Outstanding Hospital: Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre
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Outstanding Clinic: Empax Centre
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Outstanding Digital Health Service: Clean Slate Clinic
Patient-Focused Initiatives
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Outstanding Patient Research: PEEK: Personal Experience, Expectations and Knowledge
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Outstanding Patient Innovation: HiTH Remote Monitoring Service, Perth Children’s Hospital
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Outstanding Patient Campaign: Unite Against RSV, Immunisation Foundation of Australia (IFA)
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Outstanding Patient Education: Enlighten Me – Medically Supervised Weight Loss Program
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Outstanding Patient Engagement: Breaking the Cycle – Inherited Cancers Australia (ICA) Community Project
Patient-Focused Providers
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Outstanding Patient-Focused Journalism: Amber Ma, The Breast Decision
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Outstanding Specialist: Professor Andrew Spencer, The Alfred Hospital and Monash University
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Outstanding Community Pharmacist: Sara Murdock, Pharmacy 777
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Outstanding General Practitioner: Dr Sameera Bhayat
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Outstanding Nurse: Kate Holliday
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Outstanding Allied Health Professional: Dr Cloe Benz, Physiotherapist