Welcoming Dr Pammie Ellem – CNSA’s New Education Manager
A career dedicated to improving cancer nursing and equity
With a PhD in Breast Cancer Care Nursing, Pammie has devoted her career to improving cancer nursing through evidence-based practice, research and innovative education. She has worked across metropolitan, regional, rural and remote settings, always focused on promoting equity in access to cancer care and professional learning.
Her leadership experience spans higher education, vocational training and clinical education. Pammie has co-developed the Diploma of Nursing Curriculum for TAFE Queensland, served as a clinical lecturer and HDR supervisor in universities, and reviewed curriculum for organisations such as the Australian College of Nursing. She has also led numerous community education programs on cancer prevention and early detection across regional Australia.
A long-standing CNSA contributor
Pammie is no stranger to CNSA. She has served on the CNSA National Board, chaired the Queensland/NT Committee, and is an active member of the CNSA Education Portal Working Group. As Queensland Chair, she pioneered blended meetings and multidisciplinary education forums—well before the pandemic made virtual delivery common—ensuring nurses across the state could connect and learn together.
Her collaborative approach to education is exemplified by her leadership of the Specialist Breast and Prostate Cancer Nursing Practicum, an innovative blended program designed to support emerging specialist nurses in regional and remote areas. The program has received outstanding feedback from participants and partners alike for its impact on confidence and competence.
Strengthening CNSA’s national education agenda
As CNSA’s Education Manager, Pammie will lead the continued development of our Cancer Nursing Education Portal, expand our CPD and webinar programs, and scope opportunities for small, tailored face-to-face workshops that respond directly to workforce needs and complement our national events.
“Having someone of Pammie’s calibre join our team means we can move faster and smarter,” said Jemma Still, CEO of CNSA. “Her depth of experience across education, accreditation and clinical practice will help us accelerate the delivery of key national projects — including the Cancer Nursing Education Portal, the Australian Cancer Nursing Framework, and our broader efforts to strengthen and grow the cancer nursing workforce.”
Pammie’s leadership will play a vital role in ensuring that CNSA continues to provide relevant, high-quality education that supports every cancer nurse to access the learning they need, wherever they work.
I am delighted to be part of the CNSA team, bringing together my years of experience. From the beginning of my nursing career, I have always held a desire to strengthen cancer nurses wherever they may practice. Together we can make a real difference — and I look forward to supporting our members and delivering on key initiatives that advance cancer nursing across Australia.
Please join us in warmly welcoming Dr Pammie Ellem to CNSA. Her leadership, expertise and commitment to equity in education will help us continue to elevate the profession and empower cancer nurses everywhere.