CNSA Annual Report

It is with great pride and gratitude that I present this report as President of the Cancer Nurses Society of Australia (CNSA), reflecting on what has been a significant year for our organisation and the broader cancer nursing community.

Over the past 12 months, CNSA has reached new heights in strengthening our community, advancing professional development, and positioning cancer nursing as a critical and valued pillar within Australia's health system. We proudly surpassed 2,000 members this year—a significant milestone that underscores the growing recognition of our role and the strength of our collective voice.

Our community continues to be defined by its deep commitment to quality care, professional excellence, and peer connection. We saw this on full display at our 26th Annual Congress held in Brisbane, where more than 600 delegates gathered under the theme “Innovative Quality Care in a Digital Era.” The Congress was a powerful reminder of the passion, expertise, and vision within our ranks and a celebration of our ability to drive meaningful change.

In a major strategic achievement, CNSA secured nearly $1 million in funding from the Australian Government through the Cancer Patient Support Program. This critical investment will enable the co-development of a national, public-facing Cancer Nursing Education Portal. This new platform will consolidate, map, and promote educational opportunities for cancer nurses across Australia, with an aim to help address workforce development and retention challenges through tailored learning and articulated career pathways.

This year, we proudly celebrated the inaugural Cancer Nurses Day on 14 August 2024. Over 230 events were hosted across Australia to recognise the expertise, care and compassion of more than 4,000 cancer nurses. With the theme of Strong, Skilled and Specialised, this national celebration marked a major step forward in increasing public awareness and institutional recognition of the value cancer nurses bring to the lives of patients, families, and the health system at large. If you have a moment to yourself, take a look at the hashtag #CancerNursesDay on any social media platform. The outpouring of pride and genuine passion was nothing short of inspiring, and we can't wait to do it all again in 2025.

Throughout the year, CNSA strengthened our stakeholder engagement and visibility through collaboration across the broader Australia Cancer Nursing and Navigation Program. Our strategic goals continue to align with the Australian Cancer Plan, and we remain an active contributor to national discussions around the development of the National Nursing Workforce Strategy. CNSA also led the development and publication of a workforce snapshot—Understanding the Cancer Nursing Workforce: A Snapshot of the Changing Dynamics—providing timely insights into workforce demographics, role diversity, and emerging gaps. We continue to draw on national datasets and economic modelling to inform our advocacy and strategic planning.

From a Board of Director perspective, we also welcomed a new Appointed Director, Mark Lock, who joined the Board as our first externally appointed director outside of the membership. CNSA undertook a process through the Australian Institute Company of Directors to find Mark, who works with membership organisations, not-for-profits and small businesses to support best-practice governance, strategy, change and risk management. Mark was passed the baton from Professor Kate White, who stepped down after years of service. Kate’s contributions were instrumental in shaping our vision and initiatives; and have been crucial to our advocacy and positioning as an organisation. 

As you read through this Annual Report, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the collective achievements we’ve made over the past 12 months. You’ll find specific highlights across education and research, updates on our policy work and submissions, the success of our annual congress, and other membership and partnership programs. You’ll see the impact of the incredible work delivered by our standing committees, our Specialist Practice Networks, and our passionate State Groups.

Members can also access our full financial statements that highlight how we are increasing the diversity of CNSA’s revenue streams to ensure long-term organisational sustainability whilst investing in our membership, and our future.

To our members, partners, volunteers, and supporters: thank you. Your contributions and commitment have shaped a remarkable year. Together, we will continue to build a future in which cancer nurses are supported, empowered, and recognised for the extraordinary work you do—every day, in every setting.

This is your professional society—and we are always stronger when our members are engaged. Whether you are early in your career or a seasoned leader, I encourage you to get involved in some capacity. Volunteering with CNSA is a rewarding way to give back, connect with peers, and shape the future of cancer nursing in Australia.

It is a privilege to serve as your President and to represent the voice of cancer nurses across Australia.

Anne Mellon
CNSA President

At risk of sounding like a broken record, it’s been another huge and transformative year at CNSA. I am privileged to be writing my sixth Annual report now as an executive of this organisation, and every year am humbled by our progress and potential.

Over the past 12 months, we have seen the organisation grow in reach, capability, and impact across all areas of our strategic plan. Together with our members, volunteers, partners, and staff, we’ve delivered high-quality education, meaningful engagement opportunities, and a strong national voice for cancer nursing.

Through the success and excitement of the inaugural Cancer Nurses Day; and reinvigorating our messaging that reaffirmed the value of membership, we were proud to surpass 2,000 active members for the first time. This was helped by the launch our new Early Career Cancer Nurse membership category, marking an important milestone in our commitment to supporting the next generation of cancer nurses. To support these members, we also developed a new benefit called Cancer Nursing 101—a free webinar series designed to build knowledge, confidence, and connection.

We’ve also continued to invest in broad and inclusive access to professional development, delivering more than 25 live and on-demand webinars across priority areas, including immunotherapy, palliative care, genomics, clinical trials, and survivorship. Our Research Review publication and monthly podcast Nursing Excellence in Cancer Care continue to distil evidence into practice, bridging knowledge with everyday clinical relevance.

In addition to virtual learning, we delivered face-to-face events through our State Groups and Specialist Practice Networks, bringing members together to learn, collaborate and stay connected. This year, we also offered international grants for members to international cancer and nursing conferences, further supporting global engagement and knowledge exchange. We were proud to deliver more than $100,000 in scholarships and grants—supporting cancer nurses to pursue further education, attend conferences, and contribute to research and practice innovation.

This year saw the successful delivery of our first national Mentoring Program, pairing more than 60 mentors and mentees across diverse practice settings and career stages. The feedback from participants has been moving and affirming:

I lost a lot of confidence over the years of my career, particularly with knowledge and skills, even though they were there. And what the program and my mentor did was reignite those for me. And it's made me, again, passionate, confident, knowledgeable, and it's advanced my career. But it's also reminded me that you can do all that and be humble with your knowledge and your skills and your professional values.

Our program evaluation showed that 92% of participants would recommend the experience to their peers. As a result, we will now offer the program bi-annually and build on its success to support retention, connection, and leadership development.

Our digital transformation was further supported by the launch of a new CNSA website, providing easier access to content, clearer navigation, and improved member experience. The new platform also reflects our contemporary brand and values, positioning CNSA for continued digital growth.

At CNSA, we believe in the power of collaboration and its transformative impact on the healthcare landscape. This year, we proudly established collaborative national strategic partnerships with:

• AstraZeneca
• Lilly
• GSK
• Medline
• Medison Pharma
• Slater and Gordon

We are excited about the prospect of working closely with industry partners to advance our shared goals of delivering the best possible care to those affected by cancer. Effective partnerships are built on mutual benefit, and we are committed to ensuring that our collaborations with industry are impactful and meaningful.

As a not-for-profit organisation, partnerships are vital to our mission. We tailor our engagement to ensure our partners can meaningfully connect with our diverse membership of expert cancer nurses—many of whom are decision-makers or leaders in their field. With 85% of our members reporting workload as their most pressing concern, it's vital that we work together to develop solutions, improve access to education, and advocate for sustainable workforce change.

We are also focused on modernising our operations, refining our governance structures, and building systems that can scale to meet the needs of a growing and evolving workforce.

Thank you to our incredible National Office team, volunteer leaders, committee members, and partners. Most of all, thank you to our members—your strength, compassion, and commitment inspire everything we do.

Jemma Still
Chief Executive Officer

The financial year ending 31 March 2025 reflects CNSA’s ongoing commitment to strategic investment in our members, our team, and the systems that support both. While the Society posted a modest operating deficit of $6,241, this was the result of planned investments during a growth phase—investments that position us for long-term success.

We remain in a strong financial position, with net assets of $888,978, significant cash reserves, and more than $1.7 million in income received in advance, including government funding to support future initiatives.

CNSA is in a solid position as a national membership organisation. With record-high membership numbers and increasing visibility across the healthcare sector, we have invested in:

• A new digital platform and website that will significantly improve user experience, access to education, and member services.
• Grants, scholarships, and professional development opportunities that directly benefit cancer nurses across Australia
• Governance and operational infrastructure to support our growing team and increasing scope of work.
• Increased advocacy and promotion of the role of Cancer Nurses as a specialty, including the inaugural Cancer Nurses Day
• Expanded staffing capacity to enhance delivery of education, events, and member engagement.
• The next generation of Cancer Nursing leaders, through the creation of the Early Career Cancer Nurses membership category and Cancer Nursing 101 webinar series.

These investments are essential to future-proofing CNSA, supporting the workforce, and scaling impact.

CNSA continues to strengthen its financial foundation through a diverse and growing mix of revenue, including:

• A record number of membership subscriptions, reflecting trust and engagement from the cancer nursing workforce.
• Increased funding from national partners and sponsors, recognising the value of CNSA’s work and reach; and validating the role and importance of cancer nursing to improve patient outcomes.
• Ongoing income from flagship events such as the Annual Congress, and expanding education offerings, including workshops and podcasts.

Members are encouraged to find out more about the Commonwealth Government grant of $996,182, which was secured to support a multi-year project to develop a Cancer Nursing Education Portal, with $641,369 received and recognised as income in advance for FY25.

This diversity of income ensures long-term financial resilience and reduces exposure to risk from any single revenue source.

At just $220 per year, CNSA membership continues to offer exceptional value. Member benefits include:

• Access to free and discounted education, including webinars, podcasts, local events and workshops
• Professional development grants and scholarships
• Participation in Specialist Practice Networks and Communities of Practice
• Access to over 300 evidence-based resources in the CNSA Resource Library
• Advocacy representation on national policy and workforce matters
• A growing community of support and mentorship for every career stage

These benefits reflect CNSA’s mission to equip, empower, and elevate cancer nurses, and are consistently reviewed and expanded to meet member needs.

CNSA is entering a new chapter of growth and influence. With a strong financial base, increasing partnerships, and a rapidly expanding member community, we are well-positioned to scale our impact and respond to national health priorities.

We will continue to invest in:

• Support for the cancer nursing workforce
• Improved systems and services
• Sustainable growth and sector leadership

CNSA is here for the long term—and we thank our members, partners, and supporters for helping us build a stronger future for cancer care in Australia.

The Governance Committee has continued to make strong progress against the Governance Action Plan established in July 2023, with a clear focus on strengthening the organisation’s governance infrastructure, board processes, and alignment with best practice standards.

A number of key initiatives have now been completed or are well underway:

• Board Meeting Processes have been streamlined, with improved timeliness, rules of engagement and clear agenda time allocations to support strategic focus.
• Meeting Minutes processes have been strengthened, improving the accuracy and speed of documentation and approvals.
• Policies and Procedures are undergoing regular reviews to ensure best practice governance and decision-making for the organisation
• Templates and Reports have been standardised across all subcommittees and interest groups to ensure consistent, succinct reporting to the Board.
• The Risk Register and risk management cadence have been reviewed and embedded into the Finance, Audit and Risk Committee (FARC) and Board meeting cycles.

The Committee has continued its work to define and improve Board roles and effectiveness:

• An annual 1:1 Director Review process will be implemented in the coming year.
• The Conflict of Interest Register has been updated
• Development of an Induction and Onboarding Framework is underway to support new Director handovers and orientation.

CNSA’s Board remains focused on continuous improvement and professional development. During the year, the majority of Directors undertook formal governance training through the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD). This included the Company Directors Course and the Governance Essentials for Not-for-Profits, undertaken either via self-funding or with the support of scholarships. This upskilling supports stronger oversight, fiduciary responsibility, and strategic leadership. Work continues on strengthening the Board skills matrix and aligning it with future governance need, with Director position descriptions updated to align with CNSA’s Strategic Plan and clearly define responsibilities.

CNSA is committed to maintaining full compliance with its obligations under the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). All governance improvements are guided by national standards for not-for-profit governance, risk management, and financial accountability. To support our growing team and evolving operational needs, the CEO has become a member of the Australian Human Resources Institute (AHRI). This affiliation ensures that CNSA has access to expert HR guidance and contemporary tools to support a remote workforce, in full compliance with national employment standards. 

The Governance Committee remains committed to building a robust, transparent, and sustainable governance model that supports CNSA's mission and values.

Government Submissions and Consultations 

As the national peak body for cancer nursing in Australia, CNSA provides representation on behalf of its members to the Australian Government and Parliament, along with submissions to state and territory Government inquiries on a range of issues related to cancer control. In the last 12 months, CNSA members have contributed to a range of submissions.

Advocacy Opportunities 

CNSA members have been involved as representatives of the organisation, participating in several different advisory groups within the cancer control sector to provide insights and advocate for the needs of cancer nurses.  

Cancer Nursing Position Statement 

We have developed a position statement, “Contribution of Cancer Nurses to Improve Outcomes for Individuals Impacted by Cancer”, to recognise the role that Cancer Nurses play in the healthcare system to improve patient outcomes. This position statement points to the growing body of evidence that supports this and highlights how important nursing is within cancer care. The position statement was launched in August to coincide with the inaugural Cancer Nurses Day Australia.  

Cancer Nursing Workforce Survey 

The first Cancer Nursing Workforce Survey was conducted back in 2022. In 2024, we continued to promote the insights gained from this data through a series of short digests to examine specific areas of interest to the workforce. In May, we published a digest on “Cancer Nursing in the Digital Era”, and it was launched to promote the theme of the upcoming congress. In September, we published a digest on “Supporting the Educational and Professional Development Needs of Cancer Nurses”.  

We commenced work on updating the Cancer Nursing Workforce Survey to launch in 2025. The survey questions were updated with the help of the Research Standing Committee to ensure they remain relevant and can capture longitudinal data on trends in the workforce. The survey was approved by Monash HREC, and it is anticipated that it will be launched in June 2025.  

Cancer Nursing Framework 

As a part of CNSA's commitment to supporting cancer nurses' professional development, CNSA are also undertaking a project to produce a Comprehensive Cancer Nursing Framework (Framework) in collaboration with Flinders University. The updated Framework will detail the range of clinical competencies, capabilities and professional development career pathways of cancer nurses working in Australia today. Work is underway to map the pathways to specialisation for cancer nurses in Australia as part of a consultative process with key stakeholders to develop consensus on an agreed model. The Framework is expected to be launched in late 2025.  

Cancer Nursing Educational Portal  

In 2025, CNSA was awarded nearly $1 million in grant funding from the Australian Government. This is part of the $16.5 million committed to the Cancer Patient Support Program, a component of the Australian Cancer Nursing and Navigation Program. These funds will be used to deliver a major national project to strengthen and streamline cancer nurse education. CNSA has plans to build a Cancer Nurse Education Portal, which will be a centralised, accessible platform that connects cancer nurses with relevant, high-quality, evidence-based professional development opportunities across Australia.  Work is underway on engaging a range of stakeholders, including education providers, health services, government agencies, professional bodies, universities and cancer care organisations to develop a national scoping review of cancer nursing education in Australia. 

The past year has been a big one from a marketing and partnerships perspecitve, with major advances made in visibility, brand strength, and strategic collaboration. Our efforts have been guided by a commitment to building awareness, amplifying the voices of cancer nurses, and strengthening the sustainability of our organisation through meaningful partnerships.

A key highlight of the year was the launch of a new national website, designed with user experience and personalisation at its core. The website plays a central role in how we communicate with our members and the public, and its redevelopment has enabled us to better showcase the work of cancer nurses while tailoring the experience to individual needs and interests. Importantly, it serves as a central platform for our education, advocacy, and member support initiatives.

Our digital communications strategy has evolved significantly, particularly through social media. We achieved substantial growth across all platforms, with LinkedIn emerging as a powerful channel for engaging professionals, partners and sector leaders. By using data-driven approaches and timely content, CNSA's voice reached new audiences and reinforced the importance of cancer nursing in Australia's health landscape.

Our strategic partnerships were another major success area this year. We established and formalised new national partnerships aimed at driving efficiency, enhancing educational opportunities, and increasing value to members. These partnerships included the continuation of our valued relationship with MooGoo, whose support has been instrumental in delivering postgraduate scholarships to cancer nurses.

Across all marketing and partnership activity, our focus remained on showcasing the professionalism, expertise, and impact of cancer nurses. Through compelling storytelling, collaborative initiatives, and the strengthening of our brand identity, CNSA has continued to position itself as a trusted, authoritative, and inspiring presence in the cancer care sector.

Looking forward, we will continue to build on this momentum, seeking new opportunities to connect, collaborate and grow our collective impact. Our members are the heart of everything we do, and through strong partnerships and targeted marketing, we remain committed to celebrating and supporting their vital work. 

The 2024–25 period has been one of incredible growth, innovation, and connection for member engagement. Through the delivery of targeted programs, enhanced engagement strategies, and the successful implementation of new services, CNSA has strengthened its community and delivered tangible value to members across Australia.

One of the most significant milestones this year was the successful launch of the CNSA Mentoring Program. Designed to support the development of early career cancer nurses, this national initiative has already demonstrated its impact by fostering connections between emerging professionals and experienced leaders in the field. Mentors and mentees alike have reported meaningful engagement, contributing to a culture of support, learning and leadership development.

In-person engagement also experienced a strong resurgence, with CNSA delivering 15 face-to-face events throughout the year. These events were led in partnership with State Groups and Specialist Practice Networks, and provided vital opportunities for knowledge sharing, networking, and skill development at a local level. We encourage you to read more about these local opportunities within the Committees section of this report. 

The 2024–25 year saw the launch of two new grant opportunities for members. CNSA introduced international conference grants to support the professional development of nurses attending overseas cancer nursing meetings, along with the Slater and Gordon World Lung Cancer Conference scholarshop to support our nurses attend this prestiogious multi-disciplinary event. These grants reflect our commitment to fostering global perspectives and thought leadership within our community. Our longstanding partnership with MooGoo also continued, allowing us to continue offering postgraduate scholarships to nurses undertaking further education in cancer care.

Membership figures saw significant growth over the past 12 months, increasing from 1,901 members to over 2,200. This rise highlights the growing relevance of CNSA to cancer nurses across all career stages. A contributing factor to this growth was the launch of a new Early Career Membership category. This initiative recognises the unique needs of nurses in the first five years of practice and offers tailored benefits, communications, and opportunities for connection.

The growing popularity of our national Communities of Practice has been another highlight. Three Communities—focusing on Breast Cancer, Nurse Educators, and Nurse Executives/Managers—have seen collaboration and knowledge exchange grow. These groups are breaking down geographical barriers, fostering national connections, and enabling the sharing of resources and innovations across institutions.

One of the year’s most inspiring moments came through our Cancer Nurses Day campaign. With over 4,300 nurses actively participating in celebrations around the country, the campaign was a powerful reminder of the value, dedication and unity of our profession. This national moment of recognition and pride for cancer nurses resonated widely and reinforced the importance of our work.

The campaign was brought to life through a professional photo shoot held at Congress, capturing powerful images of real-life CNSA members. These portraits celebrated the diversity of the cancer nursing workforce and gave a human face to the campaign. The images were shared across social media, promotional materials, and our campaign microsite, becoming a central visual thread that connected nurses across Australia along with our tagline of Strong, Skilled and Specialised. 

To support the campaign and facilitate local engagement, we developed a dedicated Cancer Nurses Day microsite and host kits distributed to workplaces to celebrate the day. These kits included posters, balloons and napkins and we loved seeing photos of how they had been used to support the day on social media across the country! The response from the community was overwhelming, and we are already looking forward to doing it all again in 2025 with even greater impact.

The Membership and Events team remains dedicated to creating a connected membership community, underpinned by initiatives that support professional growth, peer connection, and recognition. The achievements of 2024–25 reflect the strength of our members and the opportunities that lie ahead.

The Education Standing Committee (ESC) has had a highly productive year, continuing to lead vital initiatives that shape the future of cancer nursing in Australia.

At CNSA Congress 2024, the ESC proudly delivered a highly rated pre-congress symposium Leading the way- education innovations and challenges in a digital era, focused on new and emerging technologies. Cancer nursing leaders had the opportunity to explore technology to enhance teaching and learning practices to further develop nurses’ capability in the digital health environment and inspire educational innovations.

One of the ESC’s major achievements this year was the completion and publication of the Scoping Review of International Cancer Nursing Frameworks, an essential piece of foundational work that was published in the Journal of Advanced Nursing, a Q1-ranked, top-10 nursing journal. This publication positions CNSA as a global thought leader in cancer nursing education and workforce development.

Building on this work, the ESC has partnered with Flinders University and the CNSA to progress the next phase of work: a comprehensive review and redevelopment of the EdCaN Framework. This nationally significant project will underpin future career and capability pathways for cancer nurses across the country.

Looking ahead, the ESC is also preparing to deliver a concurrent session at the joint CNSA/ISNCC Congress 2025, sharing insights from the Framework redevelopment and engaging nurses from across the globe in co-designing cancer nursing’s future.

We thank Michelle Rosano and Doreen Tapsall, who will step down this year after completing their second terms. Their dedication and leadership have been instrumental to the committee’s impact, and we extend our sincere appreciation for their outstanding contributions to the ESC and CNSA more broadly.

This year, as the ESC Chair, I also supported the McGrath Foundation in reviewing their self-assessment tool for their expanding all-cancer nurse workforce. It was an honour to contribute to this important work, which aligns with CNSA’s commitment to consistency and quality in cancer nursing practice across all settings and cancer types.

As I conclude my term as Chair of the ESC, I want to extend heartfelt thanks to all members of the committee, the CNSA Executive, and the National Office support team. These achievements are only possible because of the enthusiasm and collaboration you bring to the table—thank you.

The Research Standing Committee (RSC) has had an impactful year, delivering initiatives that support cancer nurses as researchers and collaborators, and building a stronger evidence base for cancer nursing practice across Australia.

Our eight members represent a wide range of jurisdictions and regional areas, bringing a valuable mix of clinical, academic, and research expertise. We currently have two vacancies and would welcome expressions of interest from CNSA members who are passionate about research and advancing cancer nursing.

Survey Reviews and Data Sharing

Survey review remains a core function of the RSC. Over the past 12 months, we reviewed and approved 15 surveys for distribution to CNSA members and approved one request for access to data from the 2021 Cancer Nurses Workforce Survey. Survey topics were diverse and relevant to practice, including:

• Hypnotherapy for symptom management

• Nurses’ roles in voluntary assisted dying

• Burnout and work engagement among advanced practice cancer nurses

• Barriers to establishing and sustaining nurse-led clinics

Survey response rates varied but each provided valuable insight into the real-world experiences of cancer nurses. We thank members for their participation—this support strengthens our collective voice and contributes to better outcomes for patients and the profession.

Research Outputs and Publications

The RSC contributed to the dissemination of findings from the 2021 Cancer Nursing Workforce Survey, led by Natalie Bradford, culminating in two high-quality, peer-reviewed publications:

• Collegian (2024): Variation in cancer nursing education and practice across geographic and remoteness areas
  doi.org/10.1016/j.colegn.2024.06.001

• Seminars in Oncology Nursing (2024): Cancer nurses’ perspectives on workforce challenges and strategies to address them
  doi: 10.1016/j.soncn.2024.151722

These outputs provide strong, evidence-based insights to support future advocacy and workforce reform.

2024 Research Grant Round

In an exciting development, the Breast and Prostate Cancer Association of Queensland (BPCAQ) generously contributed $20,000 to the CNSA 2024 research grant pool, supporting projects that focus on breast cancer, prostate cancer, or lymphoedema in regional Queensland. This brought the total funding pool to $50,000, the largest ever offered by CNSA.

Following blinded review, the RSC recommended, and the Board approved, three outstanding projects:

• Nicole Loft: Medic Alerts to provide accessible treatment summaries for Allogeneic HSCT patients: A pilot study to inform a future RCT
• Benjamin Tan: Nurse-led and GP-supported symptom management program for breast cancer survivors: Co-design and preliminary assessment (BPCAQ Grant)
• Andrew Dimech: Development of embedded mental health education for early career cancer nurses

We congratulate all recipients and look forward to seeing the impact of this important work.

New: CNSA Research Pathway Mentorship Program

This year, the RSC launched the CNSA Research Pathway Mentorship Program, designed to support early-career cancer nurses and emerging researchers. The program includes:

• Access to the VCCC Alliance online course Essential Research Skills for Clinical Nurses (University of Melbourne)
• Facilitated peer group meetings for networking and learning
• Support from experienced research mentors

This initiative aims to build confidence and capability in research, and support nurses to move from curiosity to contribution—whether through practice change, abstract submission, or publication.

Other Activities

The RSC was also involved in:

• Reviewing abstracts for the 2025 CNSA/ISNCC Congress

• Delivering a grant writing webinar to support applicants in the 2024 round

Thank you to all committee members and the CNSA team for your commitment, professionalism, and drive. Together, we are advancing a research-informed future for cancer nursing.

The Cancer Nurse Practitioner Specialist Practice Network (CNP SPN) has continued to strengthen its impact and grow its community of advanced practice nurses, despite a year marked by leadership transition. I officially assumed the Chair role in April 2025, following a period of illness, and extend my sincere gratitude to the network for its patience and support.

Throughout the reporting period, the SPN remained committed to expanding its reach, successfully recruiting new Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and NP students. Membership continues to grow steadily, reflecting the increasing recognition and relevance of advanced practice roles in oncology care.

In 2024, we held three face-to-face workshops designed to enhance clinical confidence and professional connection among cancer NPs:

• June 2024: Held alongside the CNSA Annual Congress, this workshop focused on complex and common clinical presentations encountered by oncology NPs, including PE/DVT, chest pain, liver derangements, and immunotherapy-induced toxicities. Sessions were expertly delivered by Dr Sam Harris, Medical Oncologist.

• October 2024 (Perth Masterclass): A two-day intensive event that brought together oncology nurse practitioners from across the country.

  • Day 1: Covered endocrine challenges in cancer care, presented by Dr Vaishali Padhye, Endocrinologist.

  • Day 2: Delivered a Radiology Masterclass by Dr Sam Harris, providing practical insights into imaging interpretation and clinical decision-making.

The committee has also been actively involved in the write-up of our Cancer NP Mentoring Research Project, conducted in collaboration with Monash University. This project, initiated in 2023–2024, represents a significant step in supporting the professional development and retention of NPs in cancer care.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to outgoing Chair Justin Hargreaves, whose leadership throughout the COVID years sustained and strengthened our SPN. His commitment to continuing in the role during the recent transition is deeply appreciated. We also acknowledge the dedicated contributions of Kristin Linke, Gill Kruss, and Sue Bartlett, who have stepped down from the committee. A special thanks to Gill Kruss, Gillian Blanchard, and Vicki Moss for their exceptional work on the research initiative.

In addition to our workshops, I was privileged to present at a breakfast session during the CNSA Annual Congress, further highlighting the importance and impact of the Nurse Practitioner role in oncology.

Being a Cancer Nurse Practitioner is a deeply rewarding career. I am passionate about advocating for advanced practice and grateful to CNSA for providing a national platform that supports, values, and amplifies the essential role of cancer nurses in delivering high-quality care throughout the patient journey.

The Gynaecological Oncology Nurses Specialist Practice Network (GYN SPN) has had another dynamic year, showcasing leadership, innovation, and collaboration across clinical care, education, and research.

At the 2024 CNSA Annual Congress, the SPN hosted a well-attended Pre-Congress Symposium aligned with the congress theme "Innovative Quality Care in a Digital Era." The program featured a diverse line-up of speakers from across treatment disciplines and supportive care, reflecting the holistic approach required in gynaecological oncology.

The SPN committee also stepped into new territory this year, becoming contributors to the CNSA "Nursing Excellence in Cancer Care" podcast series. Episodes explored the evolving treatment landscapes for both ovarian and endometrial cancers, offering expert insights and practical knowledge to a broad audience of nurses across the country.

Two major national projects remain at the forefront of the SPN’s work:

• GYN-Care: formerly known as Gynaecological Oncology Nursing Guidelines for Practice, this initiative continues to shape best-practice nursing care.

• Vulval Wound Care: this ongoing body of work has gained international recognition, with committee member Natalie Williams publishing on both topics in respected journals.

In a significant achievement, SPN Chair Bronwyn Jennings was awarded a CNSA Research Grant to evaluate "Nurse-led same day discharge following laparoscopic surgery in gynaecological oncology." The pilot project is underway, with outcomes to be presented at the 2025 CNSA Annual Congress.

The committee wishes to acknowledge and thank Belinda Zielony, who completed her term this year, for her valued contribution to the SPN and the profession.

Our members were active across the national and international professional landscape, including presentations at ICGS, COSA, and the National Cancer Survivorship Conference. Additionally, Chair Bronwyn Jennings co-chaired the ANZGOG ASM Nurses Workshop, which highlighted nurse-led innovations in clinical care and research, supporting role development and patient-centred outcomes.

Membership in the GYN SPN continues to provide a powerful platform for collaboration among like-minded clinicians committed to advanced practice and improved patient outcomes. The network remains a valued space for shared learning, mentorship, and leadership in gynaecological oncology nursing.

The Radiation Oncology Nursing Specialist Practice Network (RON SPN) had a productive and inspiring year, with significant progress in research, education, and professional engagement.

A major highlight was the completion of our workforce research project, which was finalised in 2023 and has since been written up for publication. The manuscript has been submitted and we are currently awaiting feedback. This project represents a critical step forward in understanding and advocating for the unique contributions and challenges of the radiation oncology nursing workforce.

Our Pre-Congress Symposium at the 2024 CNSA Annual Congress in Brisbane was a success, attracting strong attendance and engaging presentations from across Australia. Topics included changing treatment modalities, the implementation of MRI Linac technology, innovations in remote nursing care, challenges associated with electronic medical records, and the use of digital media for toxicity reporting. Our presenters included nursing and allied health professionals, showcasing a truly multidisciplinary perspective.

We are now actively planning our 2025 Pre-Congress Symposium in Adelaide, which will focus on "Integrating Innovations in Radiation Therapy"—continuing our commitment to keeping members informed about emerging practice and technology.

We extend our sincere thanks to Diana Ngo, Paula Macleod, and Eliza Bailey, who stepped down from the network in the past 12 months. Their contributions to the research project and the broader work of the RON SPN have been invaluable, and we thank them for their years of dedication and leadership.

This year also saw our network represented at the ASMIRT/NZIMRT Congress in Adelaide, where Chair Kirsten presented “Radiotherapy Nursing Evolution: Leadership Insights on Progress, Future Directions, and Benefit for Patient Care.” This presentation was well received by attendees and contributed to strengthening the profile of nursing within the radiation oncology sector.

RON SPN was also pleased to support and coordinate the CNSA “Nursing Excellence in Cancer Care” podcast episode focused on Radiation Oncology, offering a Q&A format to explore new treatments and techniques. This initiative provided an accessible and engaging way to share expertise and promote the role of radiation oncology nurses more broadly.

Being part of the CNSA Radiation Oncology Nursing SPN continues to offer members valuable opportunities to collaborate, share knowledge, and advocate for our profession. Through this network, we remain committed to advancing the profile of radiation oncology nursing and improving care for people affected by cancer.

The past year has been one of consolidation and sustained excellence for the VAD&IT SPN, following several years of rapid growth and the launch of impactful initiatives. We continued to build on our strong foundation, welcoming four new members—Mara Pattison-Sowden, Freya Williams, Tamara Adams, and Rachel Baker—who each bring a unique blend of clinical experience and emerging research expertise. Their involvement has invigorated the network and furthered our commitment to evidence-based vascular access practice in cancer care.

Our major achievements during this reporting period have centred on advancing the SPN’s research agenda and continuing the evolution of our living guidelines. Notable activities include:

• Manuscript development: We are preparing a publication detailing the methodology for developing living clinical guidelines for vascular access device (VAD) management.

• Patency guideline updates: We completed a comprehensive review and integration of evidence from 2019–2022 and began incorporating studies published in 2023 and beyond.

• Vascular Health and Preservation (VHP) guidelines: We collated newly published studies to inform updates to this guideline topic.

• Patient education: We are actively collaborating with Emily Larsen on a co-design study to create patient-centred educational resources for device selection.

• CNSA Pre-Congress Symposium: Our SPN led a well-received four-hour symposium featuring four contemporary topics, each presented by a different SPN member, showcasing the depth and diversity of expertise within our network.

• Standardised terminology initiative: We are commencing a multi-society collaboration to develop a consensus statement on standardised vascular access nomenclature, including a revised version for use across CNSA and eviQ resources.

This year also marked the departure of long-standing member Fiona Fuller, who served as our Treasurer and Editor since shortly after the SPN’s inception. Fiona was a key author of the patency topic in the Vascular Access Devices: Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines and brought a rare combination of clinical precision, editorial skill, and unwavering commitment to patient outcomes. We are incredibly grateful for Fiona’s contribution and wish her the very best in her future endeavours.

Members of our SPN have proudly presented our work at several prestigious forums, including CNSA Annual Congress 2024, the Infusion Nurses Society (USA), and the Association for Vascular Access (USA)—continuing to raise the profile of Australian cancer nursing internationally.

Our success is grounded in the commitment of our outstanding committee members. I would like to sincerely thank:

• Dr Nicole Gavin – Mentor, Academic Advisor

• Carolyn Meredith – Patency Subcommittee Lead

• Carmel O’Kane, Kate Schmetzer, Jane Kelly, Susan Richardson, Jason Lam – Clinical Expert Advisors from regional VIC, NSW, SA, and QLD

• Trudie Lawson – Clinical Expert Advisor (QLD) now commencing a PhD inspired by her work with our SPN

• New members: Mara Pattison-Sowden, Freya Williams, Tamara Adams, Rachel Baker – Clinical Advisors from VIC and NSW

The vibrant and dynamic environment of the VAD&IT SPN continues to foster growth, learning, and national leadership in vascular access. We are deeply grateful to CNSA for their ongoing support and for providing a platform that encourages innovation, collaboration, and celebration within cancer nursing.

This year marked a significant milestone with the successful relaunch of the Hunter Regional Group (HRG) after a hiatus of several years. The enthusiasm and commitment from our newly formed committee has been nothing short of inspiring, and we are proud to have delivered three high-quality, well-attended dinner meetings for cancer nurses in our region.

• Our first event focused on cardio-oncology, exploring the cardiac toxicities associated with cancer treatment. It was a privilege to have the CNSA President formally open the meeting and introduce our invited speakers. We also welcomed a representative from Slater and Gordon, who shared valuable information about their support services for patients with lung cancer and mesothelioma.

• Our second meeting delivered a comprehensive Brain Cancer update, featuring presentations from the Mark Hughes Foundation Brain Cancer Coordinators, who shared insights into their unique patient cohort and the support they provide.

• Our final event of the year centred on melanoma, highlighting updates in treatment and the range of supports available to patients. Feedback from attendees across all events was overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing the need for these ongoing local education opportunities.

These achievements would not have been possible without the generous support of our industry partners—we are incredibly grateful to Pharma for helping us deliver such impactful and professional events.

The formation of a new committee has been a cornerstone of our success. I want to extend heartfelt thanks to the passionate and hardworking members who have made this year possible:
Laura Healey, Zoe Feighan, Casey Hutchinson, Yolande Cox, Phillippa Dean, Alisha Gooley, and Wendy Oakley. Your dedication to strengthening cancer nursing in our region has reignited the HRG and brought our community back together.

A special thank you must also go to Amy and Anne from the CNSA National Office for their incredible administrative and events support—we truly couldn’t have done it without you.

Being a cancer nurse and a CNSA member is deeply connected for me—it’s a love affair that began in 1998 and has lasted longer than any other. I am so proud to be part of this thriving network and to help bring our regional community together once again.

The QLD–NT State Group has spent the past year laying important groundwork for future growth, connection, and improved access across our vast regions. We have welcomed new committee members who bring fresh perspectives and strong enthusiasm to our work.

Our focus has been on developing a hybrid education model for 2025, to better serve the needs of nurses throughout Queensland and the Northern Territory. We have begun engaging with key stakeholders to improve access to cancer services for QLD residents, and to ensure our education events reflect the challenges and realities of delivering care across metro, regional, and remote settings.

This year, we also farewell one of our Co-Chairs, Tess, and extend our heartfelt thanks for her dedication and leadership. Tess’s contributions have helped shape the direction of our group and we are grateful for the time and passion she gave to this role.

While plans have taken time to come together, we are energised by the creativity and commitment of our committee. We are excited about what lies ahead and remain focused on bringing innovative and accessible education opportunities to all members across Queensland and the Northern Territory.

“Despite the slow nature of our plans coming together, we have an amazing group of passionate nurses with amazing ideas we are bringing to life!

The SA Group has had another successful year, delivering three outstanding education events that were not only well attended but also highly valued by our enthusiastic membership:

• A Breast Cancer Breakfast,

• A Lung Cancer Dinner, and

• A comprehensive Haematology Workshop featuring exceptional guest speakers.

For the first time, we introduced live streaming of these events to regional locations in Whyalla and Mount Gambier, allowing nurses who are not always supported for travel to still access the high-quality education CNSA offers. This has been a significant step forward in ensuring regional equity and expanding the reach of our events.

It has been so nice that regional staff can be included and attend these education events now they are live streamed. It makes the membership so worthwhile.

These events were only made possible thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, and we gratefully acknowledge the support of GenesisCare, Roche, AstraZeneca, GSK, Gilead, Lilly, and Janssen-Cilag. Their partnership ensures that our members continue to access the latest in cancer care education.

In August 2024, we held our annual planning day, where we mapped out an exciting education program for the year ahead. We look forward to delivering:

• A Brain Cancer Breakfast,

• A Head and Neck Cancer full-day workshop, and

• A Colorectal Cancer Dinner.

This year marks a change in leadership for our State Group. We extend our deepest thanks to Gabby Vigar, who has stepped down after an incredible three-year term as Chair. Gabby has been instrumental in building and growing the SA group, increasing member engagement, and strengthening our educational offerings. Her commitment and leadership have left a lasting impact.

We also recognise and thank the committee members stepping down from May 2025, including Julie Campbell, for their valuable contributions.
(Amy to confirm final list of outgoing members.)

As we move into a new chapter, we do so with confidence, excitement, and renewed energy. The SA State Group remains committed to delivering accessible, relevant, and engaging education to our members across the state—metro and regional alike.

Education Events & Member Engagement

The VIC/TAS State Group delivered a vibrant program of events this year, embracing hybrid formats and expanding our regional reach:

• March 2025 – Dinner Event: Navigating Radiation Dermatitis & Its Management was held in Melbourne, with hybrid streaming to Hobart, Albury, and Dubbo. Despite the inclement weather at the main site, the event was a success. We were delighted to have Anne Mellon and Meredith Cummins attend, and thank Ego Pharmaceuticals for their sponsorship.

• September 2024 – Survivorship Breakfast Seminar in Bendigo showcased the value of hybrid models, with participation from Launceston, Hobart, Burnie, Wonthaggi, Clayton, Geelong, and Wimmera. This format highlighted the critical role of AV support in ensuring inclusive education access. Many thanks to Eisai, BD, Juniper Biologics, and Substance HQ for their generous support.

• Webinars – Tune in Tuesday Series

  • Cardio-Oncology in partnership with the Australian Cardiovascular Specialists

  • Myeloma: A Patient’s Journey to Accessing New Therapies

• August 2024 – Lung Cancer Nurse Education Day held in Melbourne, generously sponsored by Roche.

Committee Activity & Recognition

This year saw changes and contributions across our dedicated committee:

• Kerrilie Phillips facilitated Tune in Tuesday webinars and hosted events in Hobart. We wish Kerrilie the best as she shares her expertise with the Radiation Oncology Specialist Practice Network committee.

• Sarah Corfe, from Daylesford, Victoria, stepped down after serving almost two terms. Sarah made significant contributions to our event delivery and proudly promoted CNSA at the Australian College of Nursing Expo. Thank you, Sarah!

• Joseph Mundava, based in Mildura, Victoria, also played a key role in supporting webinars and other education activities throughout the year.

• Kara Sweeney, Victoria-based, has been an exceptional asset to the committee, demonstrating remarkable energy in organising and coordinating member events. Her commitment to supporting nurses across the region is appreciated deeply.

Celebrating Cancer Nurses

The inaugural Cancer Nurses Day was a smashing success across VIC and TAS, with recognition and celebration across many sites. It was a fabulous reflection of the incredible work cancer nurses do each day.

Looking Ahead

With a strong foundation, we look forward to continuing our hybrid education delivery model, increasing regional engagement, and building on the invaluable support network this committee represents. We are proud of our shared achievements and remain committed to delivering high-quality, accessible education for all cancer nurses across Victoria and Tasmania.

The CNSA WA Group is proud to reflect on a vibrant and successful year, shaped by a passionate and hard-working committee. Meeting monthly via Teams, and gathering once a year in person for a planning day and end-of-year celebration, the team has fostered connection, continuity, and innovation across Western Australia.

In 2024–2025, the committee delivered three high-quality educational events, tailored to meet the professional development needs of cancer nurses across the state:

• In May, we hosted a dinner seminar at the Hilton Hotel focused on Goals of Patient Care. Through an engaging speaker and live actor demonstration, attendees explored the complexities of this important area. The use of Dying to Know conversation cards sparked meaningful dialogue at every table, reinforcing the value of nurse-led contributions to care planning.

• In August, a breakfast seminar coincided with the inaugural National Cancer Nurses Day. With a focus on prostate cancer, expert presenters delivered the latest updates in care, research, and practice. The celebration was generously supported by GenesisCare, and members were treated to special gifts, sponsor goodies, and a strong sense of recognition for their daily impact in cancer care.

• In March 2025, a webinar on pharmacogenetics provided access to cutting-edge knowledge for members across WA and beyond. Featuring a medical oncologist and a clinical pharmacist, the session explored case studies, clinical applications, and the future of personalised medicine. We are deeply grateful to both speakers for donating their time to support the education of cancer nurses nationally.

This year, we were delighted to welcome Guat Leng Tan to the committee. Her fresh ideas and experience have already enriched our group, and we’re excited about her contributions to our future work.

We are also pleased to announce Sally Meffan as the incoming Chair. Sally’s leadership, clinical expertise, and deep commitment to cancer nursing make her an ideal person to guide the WA State Group into its next chapter. Outgoing Chair Christine Henneker steps down after an extraordinary six-year term, having led the committee with energy, insight, and warmth. Christine’s dedication to education, leadership development, and member engagement has left a lasting legacy, and we thank her sincerely for her remarkable service.

This year also brought personal joy to the committee—Claire Kelly and her family welcomed baby Aoife. Balancing family, professional roles, and volunteer leadership is no small feat, and we commend Claire and all our members who manage these responsibilities with such grace and commitment.

In addition to our events, the WA State Group proudly:

• Offered two travel grants to support WA members attending CNSA Congress 2024 in Adelaide, and

• Continued to provide grants for rural and remote members to attend our state-based education events, reinforcing our commitment to equity and access.

Thank you to each and every committee member for their enthusiasm, reliability, and shared vision. Together, we have ensured that every education event was delivered to the highest standard, in beautiful venues, with exceptional speakers and strong member engagement.

2024–2025 WA State Group Committee

• Christine Henneker (Outgoing Chair)

• Sally Meffan (Incoming Chair)

• Therese Thompson

• Sharon Ray

• Sara Jenke

• Lindsay Adriaansen

• Claire Kelly

• Guat Leng Tan

“The most valuable part of my professional life has been my CNSA membership and my involvement in this committee. I look forward to continuing to support the WA State Group and incoming Chair, Sally Meffan, in the future.