Donate 1300 781 500
[email protected]

Melbourne Peer Support Hub
Level 8, 255 Bourke Street, Melbourne
Open 10am – 5pm Mon, Wed, Thurs
(closed public holidays)

Donate
1300 781 500
Skip to main content
[email protected]

Melbourne Peer Support Hub
Level 8, 255 Bourke Street, Melbourne
Open 10am – 5pm Mon, Wed, Thurs
(closed public holidays)

Support over the festive season

Thank you for your support in 2025

We want to thank you for your support in 2025. We are looking forward to continuing to provide quality connections, support and information to women affected by cancer across Victoria in 2026.

Our services will be taking a short break

Our services will take a short pause so our wonderful volunteers can rest and recharge.

Our Melbourne Peer Support Hub will be closed from 5pm on the 11 December 2025 until the 12 January 2026 to give our volunteers a chance to rest and recharge.

We will provide limited phone and email support on the following dates:

  • Monday 15, Wednesday 17 and Thursday 18 December
  • Monday 22 December
  • Monday 5, Wednesday 7 and Thursday 8 January 2026

We know the festive season isn’t easy for everyone, so we’ve shared some resources below to support your wellbeing.

Looking after yourself during the festive season

Webinars:

  • ‘All is calm’  – Social worker Lynda Evans outlines strategies to look after ourselves and enjoy the festivities while remaining as calm and stress-free as possible
  • ‘Maintaining Habits of Health Living’ – Dr Amanda Horden discusses strategies to create all kinds of habits of healthy living, including exercise, to keep up motivation and manage any barriers you might experience.
  • ‘Healthy Boundaries’ – Kathy Jerin discusses setting healthy boundaries, while protecting our energy, dignity, privacy and identity.

Online information:

Phone support services:

What’s new in November

What’s new in November, with links to support, information and other items of interest.

Survey Opportunity: Cancer Care Experiences Across Australia

As part of a research project led by the University of Melbourne, this national survey seeks input from patients and carers who have been directly impacted by cancer. It explores experiences throughout the cancer journey including diagnosis, treatment, and post-cancer care.
The insights gathered will help identify gaps in current cancer care models and contribute to the development of more effective practices and policies.
Those eligible are encouraged to participate and share their perspectives to support this important work.

To have your say visit the University of Melbourne survey webpage.

SCAN 2025 is now open – Share your experience as a NET patient, carer, or healthcare professional

The International Neuroendocrine Cancer Alliance (INCA) has launched the Survey of Challenges in Access to Diagnostics and Treatment for NET Patients (SCAN) 2025. They are inviting patients, carers, and healthcare professionals to share their experiences.

By participating, you’ll help identify gaps in care and access, supporting advocacy efforts in Australia and around the world.

  • Open: 1 September – 30 November 2025
  • Available in 15 languages

To learn more or take the survey, visit the INCA website.

Support groups for people affected by rare cancers 

Rare Cancers Australia is offering a range of support groups designed specifically for those impacted by rare cancers. These groups bring together individuals who share lived experiences – creating safe, welcoming spaces to connect, ask questions, share advice, and feel less alone.

Support groups are available for:

  • Specific tumour types
  • Carers
  • People affected by any rare cancer (via the Rare Connect group)
  • Mums facing a cancer diagnosis (Mummy’s Wish group – mum-and-bub friendly)

To view the upcoming support group dates view the flyer here. To register to join the Rare Cancers Australia support group network visit the Rare Cancers Australia website.

Foundations in Cancer Care course

Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre is offering a professional development course tailored for physiotherapists, occupational therapists, exercise physiologists, and allied health assistants—including students in these fields. The course will be held on 13 February 2026, with two delivery options:

  • In-person (includes a hands-on workshop)
  • Online (does not include the workshop)

If this sounds relevant to you or your colleagues, you can register your interest to be notified when more details become available.

To register your interest complete this short form.

WCMICS Annual Forum – Celebrating 20 years 

Celebrate 20 years of impact with the Western & Central Melbourne Integrated Cancer Service (WCMICS) in a special live online broadcast on 20 November, marking two decades of collaboration, innovation, and improved cancer care across Victoria. The event features the premiere of 20 Years of Better Cancer Care, reflections from leaders and clinicians, and inspiring stories from across the network. It’s a powerful look back at the partnerships that shaped WCMICS and a forward glance at the future of integrated cancer care.

Register via the WCMICS Humanitix page.

Transforming breast cancer screening with AI webinar 

In this 30 minute webinar presented by Jean Hailes, Associate Professor Helen Frazer, a Radiologist, Breast Cancer Clinician, and Clinical Director at St Vincent’s BreastScreen and BreastScreen Victoria, explores the current state of breast cancer screening, examines how artificial intelligence (AI) enhances screening accuracy, and considers the evolving role of AI in shaping risk-based, personalised population screening strategies.

You can watch this online via the Jean Hailes for Health website.

Cancer nurses targeting inequity webinar

Join the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre (VCCC) online on 24 November from 1.00pm to 2.00pm for a free webinar presented by Professor Mei Krishnasamy and Holly Chung. They will introduce the Nursing Equity Assessment Tool (NEAT), a new resource that helps nurses identify patients disadvantaged by social determinants of health and connect them to the multidisciplinary support needed for better cancer outcomes. This session is relevant for cancer clinicians, hospital administrators, consumers, researchers, policy makers and equity advocates.

Registration is now open via the VCCC website.

ANZGOG State of the Nation: Uterine Cancers 2025 Report

The State of the Nation: Uterine Cancers 2025 report is the first comprehensive national analysis of uterine cancers in Australia and New Zealand. Drawing on the latest national data, clinical evidence and lived experience, this evidence-based report explores the risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, outcomes, projections, and survivorship of uterine cancers. Importantly, the report also charts a way forward. It identifies priority actions to strengthen prevention, drive earlier detection, improve treatment and deliver equitable care, providing a national roadmap to reduce the rise of uterine cancers, improve outcomes and save lives.

Read the report via the ANZGOG website.

What’s new in October

What’s new in October, with links to support, information and other items of interest.

 

Breast cancer drug Truqap now available on PBS

In a significant step forward for breast cancer care, the federal government has announced that Truqap – a treatment for locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer – will be added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) from Wednesday 1 October, coinciding with the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

This listing means eligible patients will now pay just $31.60 per script, compared to the previous cost of up to $100,000 for a full course of treatment. Health Minister Mark Butler said the decision is expected to benefit around 3,000 Australians each year. It will also improve survival rates for those with metastatic breast cancer.

The move has been welcomed by advocates and clinicians alike, including Metastatic Breast Cancer Action Australia and oncologist Professor Fran Boyle, who noted that Truqap offers a new option that may delay the need for chemotherapy.

Read the media release about Truqap’s addition to the PBS on Health Minister Mark Butler’s website.

Navigating Upper GI Cancer: How Pancare Foundation Can Support 

Pancare Foundation is dedicated to supporting Australians affected by upper GI cancers. They focus on prevention, early detection, personalised treatment and advancing research. Led by people who understand these challenges, they connect patients with care and provide online communities for support.

Watch the recently released Pancare video Navigating Upper GI Cancer: How Pancare Foundation Can Support on YouTube to learn more.

New study on bone health in cancer survivors: your experience matters 

Bone Health in Cancer Survivorship (BHCS) is seeking participants who have previously been diagnosed with cancer to help explore the long-term effects of treatment on bone health. Led by Dr. Lisa Grech in collaboration with Deakin University and Monash University, the study investigates how therapies like chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and glucocorticoids may contribute to osteoporosis and other bone-related issues. Through a short online survey, participants will share their experiences, lifestyle factors, and the support they’ve received, helping researchers assess current practices and identify barriers to effective bone health management. By taking part, you’ll contribute to vital research that could improve care for future cancer patients.

More information and links to the survey can be found on the flyer here.

Living with NETs October sessions 

This four-week online education program has been designed to support individuals diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) and their carers. The program offers practical information about tests and treatments, strategies for managing challenges, and guidance on improving overall wellbeing. It also provides a safe space for sharing experiences, building confidence, and developing self-advocacy skills. Sessions will run online every Tuesday in October from 1.30pm to 3.30pm (AEDT).

Register via the NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia website

 

Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month

September is dedicated to raising awareness about cancers of the female reproductive system. According to Australian Gynaecological Cancer Foundation (AGCF) an Australian woman is diagnosed with a gynae cancer every 1.3 hours.

What is gynaecological cancer? 

Gynaecological cancers are those that begin in a woman’s reproductive organs and include cancers of the:
Cervix
Uterus (endometrial)
Ovaries
Vagina
Vulva
Fallopian tubes
These cancers occur when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in these areas. Each type has its own risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options.

Symptoms  

Symptoms vary depending on the type and stage of cancer, but common signs include:

Gynaecological cancer symptoms listed with stylised graphics representing each: Abnormal vaginal bleeding (after menopause, between periods, or post-intercourse). Pelvic or abdominal pain or pressure, pain during sex, itching, burning or soreness in the pelvic area. Changes in bowel or bladder habits, unusual vaginal discharge. Lumps, sores or wart-like growths.

For a full list of symptoms please visit the Cancer Australia What are the symptoms of gynaecological cancers webpage

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to speak with your GP promptly.

Detection and screening 

Cervical cancer is the only gynaecological cancer with a national screening program in Australia:

National Cervical Screening Program: Women aged 25–74 are invited to screen every 5 years using an HPV test.
HPV Vaccine: Offered free to girls and boys aged 12–13 through schools. It protects against the types of HPV that cause most cervical cancers.

Unfortunately, there are no routine screening tests for other gynaecological cancers like ovarian or uterine cancer, making symptom awareness and early medical consultation vital.

Further information can be found on the Cancer Australia screening webpage.

Treatment options 

Treatment is tailored to the individual depending on the type of cancer, its stage and severity of symptoms but it may include:

  • Surgery: Often the first step to remove the tumour and assess its spread.
  • Radiation therapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Targeted therapy (e.g. PARP inhibitors, bevacizumab)
  • Immunotherapy (e.g. pembrolizumab)

Care is typically provided by a multidisciplinary team including oncologists, surgeons, nurses, and allied health professionals. Clinical trials may also be available for eligible patients. Further information can be found on the Cancer Australia treatment options webpage.

Support and resources

Counterpart – Peer Support Volunteers Talk to a woman who has experienced cancer and has been trained to listen and support others experiencing cancer.
Australian Gynaecological Cancer Foundation (AGCF) Provides information and resources, funds vital research, raises awareness, and advocates for better detection and treatment of all gynaecological cancers across Australia.
Counterpart – cancer types Visit the different cancer sections of this page for links to further information and resources.

What’s new in September

What’s new in September, with links to support, information and other items of interest.

Opportunities and actions to improve care for endometrial cancer

The Victorian Integrated Cancer Services (VICS) have published two key outputs from their recent consultation with clinical experts and people affected by endometrial cancer. An assessment report describes barriers and enablers to delivering optimal care, highlights patient experiences, and identifies 22 unwarranted variations in treatment and outcomes across Victoria. The Endometrial Cancer Action Register lists 32 practical actions that the VICS, their member health services, and other partners can take to address the identified variations and improve quality and equity of care.

You can find both documents, with a video of the consultation co-chairs introducing the action register, on the VICS website.

Have your say: Upper GI cancer support survey

Pancare Foundation is inviting people affected by upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancers—including oesophageal, stomach, liver, biliary, or pancreatic cancer—to take part in an anonymous online survey. Whether you’re a patient, family member, friend, or carer, your feedback will help shape future support services and resources. The survey takes 15–30 minutes and closes at 5pm on 8 September.

Read more and take part via the survey website.

New research sheds light on breast cancer treatment resistance

Scientists at the Garvan Institute have discovered why some common breast cancers stop responding to treatment. They found that a natural stress response in cells—called the JNK pathway—can be switched off in certain cancers. When this happens, treatments that usually stop cancer from growing don’t work as well.

This discovery could help doctors predict which patients might not respond to current therapies and offer them better options. It’s a step toward more personalised treatment for people with estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer, which makes up about 70% of all breast cancer cases.

Read the full report on the news and resources page on the Garvan Institute website.

Share your experience: Help researchers understand cancer anxiety

Researchers from the University of Melbourne are inviting participants to take part in a study that explores how psychological factors such as personality traits, emotions, and beliefs may contribute to anxiety, depression, and disordered eating. The study focuses on individuals living with cancer, multiple sclerosis, or an eating disorder, and compares results with those who do not have a chronic illness. Participation involves completing a series of confidential online questionnaires over several months. As a thank you, participants will have the chance to win e-gift cards after each stage of the study. Questionnaires can be completed on a phone or computer, and all data will remain confidential.

Learn more or take part on the Melbourne University study webpage.

Online course for health professionals: Cancer care for older adults

The University of Melbourne is running an online course designed to help health professionals better support older adults diagnosed with cancer. The course covers key topics like communication, treatment planning, psychosocial support, and advanced care needs. It’s ideal for anyone working with older patients, including nurses, GPs, and carers. What’s more, the course is accredited by the Australian College of Nursing and RACGP, offering practical tools and insights to improve care and confidence when supporting older people affected by cancer.

Learn more on the Future Learn website.

Q&A – Side effects of breast cancer treatment

Breast Cancer Trials is hosting a free online Q&A on Wednesday 24th September, 5:00–6:30 PM (AEST), exploring the side effects of breast cancer treatment and the latest research aimed at improving quality of life. Led by a panel of experts and moderated by journalist Annabel Crabb, the session will cover clinical trials, strategies for managing physical and emotional side effects, and insights from lived experience. Open to patients, carers, and health professionals.

Register via the Breast Cancer Trials website.

 

What’s new in August

What’s new in August, with links to support, information and other items of interest.

Navigating Fertility & Menopause During and after Treatment webinar 

Join Lymphoma Australia on Wednesday, 20th August from 4:00pm to 5:30pm (AEST) for a free educational webinar tailored for patients, families, and carers affected by lymphoma. This session will explore fertility preservation for both men and women, how to access relevant services, and ways to manage menopausal symptoms during and after treatment.

Hear from leading specialists:

Aisling Murphy – Clinical Midwife Consultant at the Royal Women’s Hospital, with expertise in fertility preservation and women’s health.

Dr Genia Rozen – Gynaecologist and Fertility Specialist, focusing on medical fertility preservation and the impacts of cancer treatment.

Professor Kate Stern – Head of Reproductive Services at the Royal Women’s Hospital and Clinical Director at Melbourne IVF, with extensive experience in public fertility services and reproductive research.Read more and register on the Lymphoma Australia website.

End-of-Life Essentials video

A new animated video by End-of-Life Essentials at Flinders University helps equip healthcare professionals with the tools to respond to grief with care and confidence.

Developed with bereavement care experts, and shaped by a powerful personal story, this short video is a gentle reminder of the impact we can have in life’s hardest moments.Watch this video on the Vimeo platform

Think Pink Foundation free support

Think Pink Foundation offers a wide range of free programs and services to support individuals affected by breast cancer. These programs are designed to provide emotional, physical, and practical support and are available to patients, families, and carers at any stage of the breast cancer journey.
Some of the key programs on offer include:

      • Support Groups for women, men, and carers
      • Wellness Programs like yoga, pilates, meditation, and massage
      • Health Services including breast care nurse consultations and wig fittings
      • Educational Workshops and cooking demos
      • Special Events like the Day of Indulgence

Most programs are available online, making them accessible from home. To discover all programs visit the Think Pink Foundation website.

Webinars for cancer nurses

The Cancer Nurses Society of Australia (CNSA) offers a professional development webinar series called Tune in Tuesday, designed to provide practical, interactive learning for cancer nurses. These webinars are free for CNSA members and cost $30 + GST per session for non-members. Each session contributes 1 CPD point and is available on-demand for members through the CNSA Member Hub, making it easy to access valuable insights and strategies for multidisciplinary cancer care.

August webinars topics include:

        • 12 August – Beyond Tired: Managing Cancer-Related Fatigue
        • 14 August – Cancer Nurses Day Q&A with HESTA Nurse of the Year winners
        • 19 August – Fertility and Pregnancy-Associated Cancer

      Learn more and register on the Cancer Nurses Society of Australia website.

Lung Cancer Screening Education Hub 

Everything health professionals need to know about the National Lung Cancer Screening Program roll out, all in one place. Access free recordings from our Lung Cancer Screening Symposium, as well as an array of free resources. Be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and strategies to deliver effective, equitable, and culturally safe lung cancer screening and care across diverse communities.

Visit the VCCC website to access the resources.

New Energy Assistance Program 

Victorian health professionals, including GPs and nurses, can now refer patients to the Energy Assistance Program – a free initiative supporting individuals whose health is impacted by living in cold or hot environments. The program offers tailored energy advice and support to help patients live in safer, healthier homes.

Referrals are made via a short online form; There is no cost to the patient or the referring provider. The program is funded by the Victorian Government until December 2025 (with potential extension to December 2026).

Access referral tools, posters, and clinical resources in the VCOSS Warm Winter Digital Resource Pack.

Read the health risks of energy hardship, with supporting research and information on medical concessions via the Health and Energy Hardship Information Page on the VCOSS website.

Responding to Emotions in Cancer Workshop

With the July workshop now fully booked, Cancer Council Victoria will be delivering the same workshop in October. Strengthen your communication skills with the Responding to Emotions in Cancer Workshop, delivered in person by Cancer Council Victoria. This RACP-approved workshop is for trainees and staff to practice responding to emotions using simulated patient scenarios. You’ll receive personalised feedback and build confidence in managing sensitive conversations with patients, families, and carers.

Visit the VCCC Alliance website for more information and bookings.

 

 

Bridge of Support returns to Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

We’re excited to announce that Counterpart’s Bridge of Support (BOS) program has resumed at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. This vital program offers peer support to women living with breast and gynaecological cancers, right where they receive their care. 

Bridge of Support is free and confidential, and connects women who are currently undergoing cancer treatment with trained Peer Support Volunteers, women who have experienced cancer themselves. These volunteers offer empathy, understanding, and a listening ear, helping others navigate the emotional and practical challenges of a cancer diagnosis. 

We are proud to partner with Peter Mac to bring this meaningful support to women at their Parkville location. From 1 May, peer support is available on-site every Thursday. 

Peer Support Volunteer Bridget said “It’s a great opportunity when women are in the day chemo chair – they have time to talk, if they want to. We can see how peer support complements clinical care.” 

With this relaunch, Counterpart’s Peer Support Volunteers are now providing in-person support across four major Melbourne hospitals: 

Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre – every Thursday
Royal Women’s Hospital – every Thursday
Royal Melbourne Hospital – every Thursday
Sunshine Hospital – every Wednesday 

We’re grateful to our dedicated volunteers and hospital partners for making this compassionate program possible.  

To learn more about our Peer Support Volunteers visit Meet our volunteers.  

If you would like to access support visit our How can I speak with a Peer Support Volunteer page. 

 

Mary Macheras Magias, Bridge Of Support Coordinator with Peer Support Volunteers Rosanne and Emma outside Peter Mac.

Pictured (L-R): Mary Macheras Magias, Bridge Of Support Coordinator with Peer Support Volunteers Rosanne and Emma.

What’s new in July

What’s new in July, with links to support, information and other items of interest.

Join the living with NETs July online program

Starting Tuesday 15 July 2025, this free 4-week virtual program is designed to support neuroendocrine cancer patients and carers. Each weekly session runs for 2 hours (1.30–3.30pm AEST) and offers expert-led education on neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), including tests, treatments, wellness strategies, and coping techniques. Participants will gain knowledge, build confidence in self-advocacy, and connect in a safe, supportive environment. Recordings will not be available to ensure privacy.

For more information and to register visit the Neuroendocrine Cancer Australia website.

Study: Inclusive exercise care for LGBTQIA+ people affected by cancer

This study aims to gather the perspectives of LGBTQIA+ people with lived experience of cancer on an e-learning module designed for exercise oncology professionals. The module focuses on trauma-informed care and aims to help professionals understand how trauma can affect a person’s engagement with healthcare and exercise services. The 20-minute training introduces core concepts and includes a case study featuring an LGBTQIA+ individual, highlighting the impact of stigma and discrimination. While the module offers initial guidance and links to further resources, it does not provide in-depth content tailored to LGBTQIA+ clients. Researchers are now seeking feedback to assess the module’s relevance, appropriateness, and potential impact, and to identify ways to improve its value for the community.

Read more and take part on the University of Melbourne website.

Lung cancer screening is now available

The National Lung Cancer Screening Program is a new national health program that launched on July 1. It uses low-dose CT scans to screen for lung cancer in people at high risk, aiming to detect cancer early and save lives.
People eligible for free screening include those who:

  • Are between 50 and 70 years old.
  • Show no signs or symptoms of lung cancer (e.g., coughing up blood or shortness of breath).
  • Have a history of at least 30 pack-years of cigarette smoking.
  • Are either currently smoking or quit within the past 10 years.

For full details visit the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website 

Melanoma treatment approved on PBS

Australians with high-risk Stage III melanoma will soon have subsidised access to pre-surgery combination immunotherapy through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), following its approval by the PBAC. This marks a major shift in cancer care, with clinical trial results showing significantly improved survival when treatment is given before surgery. The international NADINA trial, co-led by Melanoma Institute Australia, demonstrated the life-saving potential of this approach, setting a new global standard.

With Australia having the highest melanoma rates in the world, this PBS listing ensures equitable access to a breakthrough therapy.

Read more on the Melanoma Institute Australia website.

Optimal Cancer Care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People Learning Program

Explore the free Optimal Cancer Care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People Learning Program, an online, culturally grounded course. Learn through the stories of three fictional patients — Daphne, Uncle Brian and Daniel — across four interactive, real-world modules.

The course follows the 2024 Optimal Care Pathway from Cancer Australia to guide culturally safe, patient-centred cancer care. It supports Aboriginal Health Workers and healthcare professionals in improving cancer care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Whether you’re in primary care or coordinating treatment, this course offers practical strategies to improve cancer outcomes.

Find out more and enrol in this short short course on the VCCC Alliance website.

An Introduction to Supportive Care in Cancer course

Discover the vital role of supportive care in cancer treatment with the free online course An Introduction to Supportive Care in Cancer. Designed for healthcare professionals, this course offers practical tools to screen, discuss, and address the supportive care needs of people with cancer. Guided by insights from those with lived experience, you’ll explore key supportive care domains, including social determinants of health. You’ll also learn strategies to deliver care that is culturally safe and truly patient-centred.

Developed by WeCan and the VCCC Alliance, this course empowers you to make a meaningful impact in cancer care.

To learn more and enrol in this short course visit the VCC Alliance webpage, Supportive Care in Cancer.

Responding to Emotions in Cancer Workshop

Strengthen your communication skills with the Responding to Emotions in Cancer Workshop, delivered in person by Cancer Council Victoria. This RACP-approved workshop is for trainees and staff to practice responding to emotions using simulated patient scenarios. You’ll receive personalised feedback and build confidence in managing sensitive conversations with patients, families, and carers.

Date and time: 28 July 2025, 9.00am–1.00pm
Location: Room 1, Level 13, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Parkville, Victoria
Limited to 8 participants per session – register now to secure your place.

Visit the VCCC Alliance website for more information and bookings.

 

 

What’s new in June

What’s new in June, with links to support, information and other items of interest.

New and tailored resources for medically induced menopause

Inherited Cancers Australia and Jean Hailes for Women’s Health have joined forces to create evidence-based resources to provide clarity, guidance and support for medically induced menopause.

If you’re navigating medically induced menopause or preparing for a treatment or surgery that may lead to it, these resources can help you understand what to expect, manage symptoms and find the support you deserve.

Explore the new medically induced menopause resources on the Inherited Cancers Australia website.

Lived experience survey

Rare Cancers Australia (RCA) is inviting adults across the country – whether you are currently living with cancer, have experienced it in the past, or have cared for someone who has – to take part in their Cancer Lived Experience Survey.

Your voice is vital in helping to understand the unique challenges faced by people with rare and less common cancers, including limited treatment options and high out-of-pocket costs. The insights gathered will guide improvements in support services, influence policy change, and ensure no one is disadvantaged by their cancer type, postcode or financial situation. The survey takes just 20 minutes, is completely anonymous, and can be paused and resumed at any time.

Visit the RCA website by 15 June to read more and take part in the survey.

Look Good Feel Better upcoming virtual sessions

LGFB Virtual Workshops are live, interactive sessions that allow people undergoing cancer treatment to connect with others in similar situations—all from the comfort of their own home. June sessions include Qigong, meditation, skincare and makeup, and selfcare.

View the June flyer here and visit the Look Good Feel Better website to register.

Have you created a Cancer Mind Care Plan?

Cancer Mind Care is a free online resource supporting the mental wellbeing of people diagnosed with cancer, their support people and healthcare professionals. It offers a personalised Cancer Mind Plan based on how you’re feeling, with expert-developed strategies and resources.

The platform is completely confidential, storing no personal information, and provides a safe first step toward emotional support. Developed in 2021 by Western & Central Melbourne Integrated Cancer Service (WCMICS), Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, and Gippsland Regional Integrated Cancer Service (GRICS), Cancer Mind Care is grounded in both clinical expertise and lived experience.

Visit the Cancer Mind Care website to take the survey and discover supportive resources.

Addressing Challenges Faced by LGBTIQA+ Individuals Affected by Cancer

Western & Central Melbourne Integrated Cancer Service (WCMICS) is seeking participants to take part in their second-round consultation survey to help prioritise service improvement initiatives that address the specific needs of LGBTIQA+ individuals affected by cancer.  Input in this survey will guide the design of projects that reduce inequities and better align with the needs of LGBTIQA+ patients and member health services.

Whether you’re a healthcare professional, researcher, person with lived experience, carer, or community ally — your voice matters. You don’t need to be affiliated with a WCMICS health service to participate.

Visit the survey website to read more and take part.

What’s new in May

What’s new in May, with links to support, information and other items of interest.

Melanoma webinar series for patients and carers

MPA/MIA Melanoma Community Webinar SeriesJoin Melanoma Institute Australia (MIA) & Melanoma Patients Australia (MPA) for an informative series of three live Tuesday evening webinars (7.00pm-8.00pm AEST) for patients with melanoma and their carers.

These free webinars will provide you with a rare opportunity to hear from an MIA expert and an MPA community member as they focus on a different topic of interest each week. Each session, facilitated on Zoom will conclude with a Q&A panel discussion.

Webinar 1: ‘Genetic testing for melanoma’ – 10 June
Webinar 2: ‘Understanding melanoma drug therapy & the new era of neoadjuvant’ – 17 June
Webinar 3: ‘A deep dive into sunscreen’ – 24 June

More information and registration via the Melanoma Institute Australia website

Help improve care for people with head and neck cancer

Study: head and neck cancer care. Share your experience to help improve services for people with head and neck cancers.

Do you, or someone you care for, have an experience with head and neck cancer? The Victorian Integrated Cancer Services (VICS) invite you to contribute your voice to their 2025 consultation on variations in head and neck cancer care.

Your input can help identify where services could be improved for people affected by head and neck cancer, and their carers, by joining an online focus group. Your insights will be presented at a VICS Optimal Care Summit in October where experts and people affected by cancer will discuss actions to improve quality and equity of care across Victoria.

If you’re interested in participating, please read and fill in the survey via the survey website.

 

New research: AI in breast screening

'New research: AI in breast screening.' graphic of 5 human icons, 4 are maroon and one is a peachy pink. 'one in five people might stop participating in breast screening if they don't like how AI is being used.'AI is reshaping healthcare—including how we screen for breast cancer. Tools like AI-assisted mammography reading could make screening faster and more accurate.

However, a study conducted by the Daffodil Centre and University of Sydney shows that if people don’t trust or understand how AI works in healthcare, they may opt out entirely.

View the infographic of stats via the researchers website or read the full report via the American Cancer Society Journals online library.

 

 

Have your say – help inform your Local Health Service Network

'Have your say: Share your experience and priorities for healthcare in your community' with 2 speech bubbles on the side.Your story can help shape the future of healthcare in Victoria.

The Victorian Department of Health is inviting Victorians to share their experiences accessing healthcare – and it’s vital that women’s voices are heard. Too often, women’s health needs have been overlooked. This is a real opportunity to help create a system that works better for everyone.

Your feedback will help shape Local Health Service Networks, launching in July 2025, which will bring hospital services together to deliver more coordinated and accessible care across the state.
Whether you’re a community member or healthcare worker, your experience over the past 3 years matters – and your response is anonymous.

The survey takes just 10 minutes and closes on 8 June. Learn more and take part on the Engage Victoria website.

EOI – National Steering Group for the Empowering Regional Cancer Care

Expressions Of Interest: Join the National Steering Group - Empowering Regional Cancer Care in Underserved Populations project. VCCC Alliance are currently inviting Expressions of Interest from individuals across Australia to join the National Steering Group for the Empowering Regional Cancer Care in Underserved Populations project. They are particularly seeking consumer advocates, allied health professionals, nurses, medical staff, researchers, and clinicians who are passionate about shaping and guiding the educational needs of Australia’s regional, rural and remote cancer workforce.

Submissions close 31 May. To see what is involved and to apply visit the VCCC Alliance website.

 

 

VCCC webinars recordings for health professionals

'VCCC webinars recordings for health professionals: Lung cancer: breaking barriers, building support. Profits vs people.'VCCC have added 2 recently recorded webinars to their library. See details on them below.

Watch the Lung cancer care – Breaking barriers, building support webinar to gain valuable insights and learn how we can enhance the lives of those affected by lung cancer. Key topics include the Lung Cancer Specialist Nurse Telehealth Program, the importance of supportive care services, the National Lung Cancer Screening Program, and more.

The Profits vs people webinar provides an understanding of how various commercial sectors impact public health beyond just tobacco, alcohol, and ultra-processed foods. Discover the broader commercial determinants of health, such as pharmaceutical patents, housing, and environmental pollution, and learn about the political challenges in addressing these issues. This session will provide strategies for health professionals, advocates, and others to prioritise people and the planet over profits.

To access upcoming webinars visit the VCCC webinar webpage.

Responding to Emotions in Cancer Workshop

For health professionals: Responding to emotions in cancer workshpp'Join Cancer Council Victoria’s one-day, in-person workshop designed for health professionals to enhance their communication skills with cancer patients. Participants will explore emotional reactions to cancer, recognise and respond to emotions effectively, and receive personalised feedback in a safe environment.  The workshop will be held on 3 July and 28 July (same content).

Visit the VCCC website to read more and register.

Counterpart is a service of
Our other services and initiatives