Cancer Connect: new national navigation service launches tools for healthcare professionals
The tools include a referral guide, patient fact sheets, posters and brochures to familiarise healthcare professionals with the enhanced navigation service, part of the Australian Cancer Nursing and Navigation Program (ACNNP), and how it fits alongside existing supportive and clinical care being provided.
A new referral form has been added to the expanding website - cancerconnect.com.au - which can be used by any healthcare professional or support staff member who needs to connect patients with practical and emotional support. The website also features a growing directory of support services available from organisations across the country searchable by people who wish to self-navigate, while the 13 11 20 number now offers a more centralised, streamlined service to callers needing help, no matter who they are or where they live. Additional content is also being added for people from priority groups including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, CALD, Remote and Regional, and LGBTQIA+.
The numbers
- The service is backed by a $49.6 million Australian Government investment (2023-24 to 2026-27) through the Australian Cancer Nursing and Navigation Program.
- More than 2.6 million Australians are projected to be living with cancer by 2050, 57% more than in 2025.
- In CNSA research, 88% of Australian cancer nurses said high workloads are a challenge.
- People from priority groups were 1.7 times more likely to feel overlooked by cancer services, and 80% would prefer to connect with someone who understands their identity, background and culture.
Why it matters for cancer nurses
- You don’t need to know every support service in Australia. Cancer Connect can do the navigating with you and for your patients.
- The new referral form works for any health professional or support staff member.
- It complements your clinical care rather than replacing it, freeing up time for the things only you can do.
Cancer Council is leading the development of Cancer Connect in partnership with the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, through ongoing consultation and support from ACNNP partners and other organisations providing cancer services.