Most patients with ovarian cancer present at an advanced stage and are never cured. To improve outcomes a variety of novel systemic strategies are being developed. Traditional cytotoxic chemotherapy is being optimised, anti-angiogenic strategies are already in the clinic and several PARP inhibitors have gained regulatory approval. In addition, immunotherapy is showing promise and novel targeted strategies including against folate receptor alpha are also generating excitement. As our therapeutic choice increases, a challenge will be how to best utilize the options available. Here we discuss recently established and other emerging therapies with a focus on key concepts rather than detailed synopses of trial designs and outcomes.