Our 15-year partnership with McGrath Foundation surpases $1.5 million milestone

For a decade and a half, Community First Bank has been dedicated to making a positive difference through its partnership with the McGrath Foundation. With the support of members who choose Community First’s pink debit and credit cards, funds have been raised to support the McGrath Foundation who raise money to fund McGrath Breast Care Nurses right across Australia and invest in their professional development to ensure people with breast cancer receive the highest standard of care.

McGrath Breast Care Nurses provide trusted, consistent and knowledgeable support for families by offering medical expertise, clinical care and psychosocial support from the time of diagnosis and throughout treatment. There are now more than 233 McGrath Breast Care Nurses in communities across Australia who have supported more than 143,000 families since 2005.

The ongoing impact of breast cancer

Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in Australia. In fact, one in seven women in Australia will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives. This year alone, an estimated 58 people will receive a breast cancer diagnosis every day.

The incidence of breast cancer in Australia is on the rise, with 20,973 women and 221 men expected to be diagnosed this year. While the number of cases continues to grow, there is hope—relative survival rates for women have significantly improved over time. The five-year relative survival rate has increased from 77.3% in 1989-1993 to an encouraging 92% today ¹ .

Reaching a marvelous milestone through Pink Card initiatives

Community First’s innovative Low-Rate Pink Credit Card donates half of the annual fee each year and the Pink Everyday Account donates a portion of the monthly fee. Together, the pink card products have made raising over $1.5 million possible.

These contributions are crucial in funding McGrath Breast Care Nurses, with approximately $140,000 required to support one nurse for a year.

“Community First Bank is deeply committed to supporting the McGrath Foundation and the essential work they do in our communities,” said John Tancevski, CEO of Community First Bank. “We are incredibly proud of the collective efforts of our staff, members, and partners in reaching this remarkable milestone.

“The McGrath Foundation’s mission to provide vital support to those affected by breast cancer aligns closely with our values, and we are honoured to contribute to their ongoing efforts.”

Still more work to do

Despite significant progress, breast cancer remains a serious concern, and it is estimated to be the second leading cause of cancer death among women, following lung cancer. In 2023 alone, an estimated 3,305 lives were lost to breast cancer, including 3,272 women and 33 men. “These sobering statistics highlight the ongoing need for research, awareness, and support for those affected by this disease,” John Tancevski added.

“In light of these realities, and as we continue our partnership with the McGrath Foundation, Community First is committed to increasing awareness and encouraging greater participation from our employees and members in these vital initiatives.”

If you’d like to contribute to the McGrath Foundation and support individuals and families affected by breast cancer, consider applying for one of Community First’s pink products. Credit eligibility criteria, terms and conditions, and fees and charges apply.

Community First is honoured to be part of the McGrath Foundation’s ongoing mission, making a positive impact by funding McGrath Breast Care Nurses, who offer expert knowledge, personal care, and genuine compassion to those in need.

You can apply for the Low Rate Pink Credit Card or Pink Everyday Account from anywhere in Australia by visiting www.communityfirst.com.au or calling 1300 13 22 77.



^{1. Deloitte Access Economics analysis of McGrath Breast Care Nurse data and 2016 Census Data}

^{2. Health Consult, “Evaluation of the Second Federal Government Funded Breast Care Initiative – Final Evaluation Report” 2016}

^{3. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2024. Cancer data in Australia. Cat. no. CAN 122. Canberra: AIHW. Accessed 15 August 2024; https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/cancer/cancer-data-in-australia}