Mentoring Program

APPLICATIONS FOR OUR 2026 MENTORING PROGRAM ARE NOW OPEN!

Our CNSA Mentoring Program is designed to support career development, capability building and renewed professional confidence for cancer nurses across Australia.

The program pairs mentees with experienced mentors who bring sector insight, practical guidance and a commitment to strengthening our profession.

If you are an early-career cancer nurse looking to enhance your confidence, expand your skills, elevate your career or explore different cancer-nursing career paths, and are willing to commit to 2hrs/month (1hr to meet and 1hr to prep/follow up) for the duration of the program, then we encourage you to apply.

The seven-month program (running from 31 March to 31 October 2026) provides a supportive, confidential space where participants can reflect, learn and grow.

The experience helps mentees find clarity around their ideal career direction, build leadership skills, develop a broader understanding of the cancer nursing landscape, and reconnect with the purpose that drew them to the specialty in the first place. Mentors also benefit through fresh prospective, renewed professional energy, expanded networks and the chance to contribute to the development of emerging leaders.

Across the program, mentor–mentee partnerships work through themes such as:

  • clarifying career pathways and building confidence in professional decision-making
  • developing leadership and communication capability
  • gaining a broader view of the cancer care system, including foundations in policy, research and education
  • strengthening resilience and reducing burnout through shared learning and support
  • expanding networks and building genuine connections within a safe and engaged cohort
  • enhancing your ability to collaborate, navigate challenges and influence your workplace
  • building momentum for ongoing learning, teaching and upskilling.

Thanks to the continued support of our partner, AstraZeneca, we're able to invest in the next generation of cancer nurses by offering a structured, meaningful program that nurtures both professional growth and personal confidence.

 

APPLICATIONS FOR OUR 2026 PROGRAM ARE NOW OPEN

Submit An Application

 

FAQs

What is the purpose of this program?

The program is designed to help mentees find clarity around their ideal career direction, build leadership skills, develop a broader understanding of the cancer nursing landscape, and reconnect with the purpose that drew them to the specialty in the first place. Mentors will also benefit from fresh prospectives, renewed professional energy, expanded networks and the chance to contribute to the development of emerging leaders.

What is Brancher?

We’re partnering with Brancher, a science-backed mentoring platform that uses advanced matching technology to connect mentees and mentors based on skills, goals, and personality and values fit.

Who will I be matched with?

Mentees will be matched with experienced cancer nurses who have the specialist skills to support their career journey. The program application form will prompt participants to provide information about themselves, their career experiences and aspirations. It will also allow participants to provide their preferences (if any) as they relate to a mentor/mentee. Brancher’s science-based algorithm ensures a match that will challenge and support you, helping you reach your full potential. 

Why does the sign up form ask questions about our personality and values?

Research shows that personality and values are some of the biggest predictors of matching outcome success. As such, the EOI form asks confidential questions about your personality and values for matching purposes. All data is stored securely and confidentially.

What does the program involve?

  • A structured seven month program for eligible mentees and mentors.
  • One monthly meeting (virtual or in-person).
  • Five online training modules for mentees, six for mentors (each <15 minutes).

What is the time commitment?

Approx. 2 hours per month:

  •  1-hour mentoring session
  •  1 hour of self-work (prep + follow-ups)

You may also be invited to attend a webinar/workshop throughout the program.

Why should I sign up?

Mentees: Research shows mentoring leads to higher job satisfaction, confidence, career growth, and even pay increases!
Mentors: Enjoy the reward of paying it forward, while developing coaching skills and boosting job performance.

Will everyone be accepted?

While we encourage all eligible applicants to apply, spots are limited to ensure quality matches.

What if I don’t get accepted?

If you’re not accepted, it simply means we couldn’t find an ideal match this time. However, we encourage you to apply again in the future!

What if I’m unsure about my match?

We encourage you to meet at least once – to explore whether there is good fit. If you are still unhappy after your first meeting, please reach out to your mentoring lead to understand your options.

What happens if my mentor/mentee is unresponsive?

If your mentor or mentee becomes unresponsive, please reach out to your mentoring lead for assistance.

How can I learn more?

Review the Mentoring Guide or reach out to [email protected].