Supporting and Upskilling Cancer Nurses in the Northern Territory
CNSA was proud to support the delivery of two Difficult Intravenous Vascular Access (DIVA) workshops presented by Clinical Associate Professor Evan Alexandrou for the University of Wollongong and Liverpool Hospital. The workshops were very well attended by clinicians from Royal Darwin Hospital and the Alan Walker Cancer Centre, all working to support patients experiencing cancer and complex venous access challenges.
The sessions focused on strengthening assessment, clinical decision-making and practical techniques for managing difficult vascular access. For cancer nurses, this skillset is critical. Effective vascular access reduces treatment delays, minimises patient discomfort, and improves the overall care experience. Investing in these capabilities directly supports safer treatment delivery and better outcomes for people affected by cancer.
The workshops were generously supported by Medline and BD, whose partnership helped make this important education accessible in the Northern Territory.
Strengthening Connections Across Darwin
While in Darwin, Pammie also met with cancer nurses from Darwin Private Hospital, Royal Darwin Hospital and the Alan Walker Cancer Centre.
It was a valuable opportunity to see firsthand the breadth of cancer services available in the NT and to better understand the local scope of treatments. The Alan Walker Cancer Centre operates as a day treatment centre offering a comprehensive, one-stop model of care for patients undergoing therapy. The service is supported by tumour stream nurses and psychosocial support services, reflecting a strong commitment to holistic, patient-centred care.
These conversations reinforced the importance of ensuring nurses working in regional and remote areas have equitable access to high-quality professional development and national connection. Supporting the NT workforce is not just about delivering workshops. It is about building relationships, understanding local challenges, and ensuring cancer nurses feel connected, valued and supported.
A National Commitment to Regional Cancer Care
CNSA CEO Jemma Still said the visit reflects CNSA’s broader commitment to strengthening the cancer nursing workforce across all jurisdictions.
“Cancer nurses in the Northern Territory deliver highly specialised care in unique and often complex settings. At CNSA, we are committed to ensuring nurses in regional and remote areas have equitable access to high-quality education and national connection. When we invest in upskilling nurses, we directly improve the experience and outcomes for people affected by cancer. Our role is to listen, support and build capability. By partnering with local services and industry, we can help ensure that no matter where a person lives, they receive safe, specialised and compassionate cancer care.”
Looking Ahead
Darwin will also host a site for the upcoming QLD/NT State Group event in March, Turning Down the Hormones, Turning Up the Heat: Endocrine Therapy and Sexual Wellbeing in Breast Cancer. Interest in this event has already been strong, reflecting the appetite for practical, clinically relevant education in the region.
CNSA looks forward to continuing to collaborate with the Darwin cancer care community in the months and years ahead, strengthening networks, building capability and supporting nurses to deliver exceptional care.
