It is an independent body that advises various groups, including government, on cancer-related issues.

[5] Cancer Council Victoria has a long history of anti-smoking advocacy, dating back to the early 1960s, even pre-dating the landmark 1964 US General Surgeon's Report on links between tobacco and cancer.

Of particular note: In 2009, Cancer Council Victoria spent $22.4 million on research programs.

SCImago measured the rate at which an institute's research is the result of international collaboration and the rate at which it is published in high-quality journals – in both measures Cancer Council Victoria was in Australia's top five.

[20] In 2009, Cancer Council Victoria spent $22.4 million on education, prevention and support initiatives.