Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander visitors to this website should be aware that content material may contain images, voices and names of those who have passed.

Cancer Care

 Expert cancer care with respect for culture, family, and connection to Country

The First Nations Cancer Care service brings together expert medical care with respect for culture, family, and connection to Country. In partnership with the McGrath Foundation, we provide trusted nursing support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experiencing cancer.

We provide holistic care that supports your body, mind, spirit, and connection to Country, while making space for family, Elders, and community in your healing.

Together, staff will walk with you every step of your cancer journey. We will always listen, support and promote your voice in your care and recovery.

Resources

  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cancer Care brochure
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cancer Care fact sheet

 

Connect

To access, contact the McGrath First Nations Nurse Navigator:

Further information

To support you and your family throughout your cancer journey, explore the following resources:

  • Kalwun Development Corporation: Offers a Connected Community Pathways (CCP) program to assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experiencing cancer. Access to this program is by referral which can be made by a GP, Health Practitioner, family/friend or a self-referral. Complete the online cancer care referral.
  • McGrath Foundation – Breast Care Nurses: Provides free expert nursing care and support to people experiencing any type of cancer, and their families. Find a nurse near you.
  • Yarn for Life: Having a yarn could save your life. Watch stories and access resources to find out how talking about cancer helped First Nations peoples. 
  • Our Mob and Cancer: A safe place for you and our mob to belong. Here you can find information about cancer, including cancer types, prevention, diagnosis, treatment living with cancer, finding support, clinical trials and much more.
  • All about cancer: Find general information about cancer, treatment options, stories and support services. This website has been produced together with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, start exploring. 
  • Cancer Australia Queensland First Nations: Developed cancer information and resources tailored for Queensland’s First Nations communities.

 

Image credit: Charlie King, Gurindji, Sports Commentator. Australian Government, Cancer Australia.

Women's business - Sistas Shawl Program

Women taking care of women: Free culturally safe breast screening for women aged 40 and above 

Through the Sisas Shawl program, First Nations women attending BreastScreen Queensland at Gold Coast locations receive a cultural shawl, which can be worn or used during their screen. This program provides a culturally safe and supportive environment for women when screening. 

 

Artwork acknowledgement

Healing Journey, produced for Gold Coast Health by Grace Brown, Woi wurrung language region, Wurundjeri (2025)