Strengthening Cultural Safety in Cancer Services
WCMICS launches groundbreaking First Nations Cancer Coordinator Toolkit in Naarm.
This morning, WCMICS launched the First Nations Cancer Coordinator Toolkit in a powerful event at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre.
The launch marked a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to create culturally safe, community-led cancer care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, addressing longstanding health disparities and improving access to equitable cancer care.
The event, held on the lands of the Wurundjeri people, was grounded in cultural respect and recognition. Kathy Quade, WCMICS Program Director, opened the event emphasising the importance of this toolkit as more than just a resource.
“This is not just the release of a toolkit,” Quade remarked. “It’s a step forward in embedding cultural safety, amplifying Aboriginal voices, and creating a health system that is more responsive and equitable. […] This toolkit is not the end, but the continuation of a journey toward equity and trust.”
Developed through a collaborative effort between WCMICS, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, and the Royal Melbourne Hospital, the toolkit is the culmination of years of work to design a model of cancer care that aligns with the values and needs of First Nations communities. WCMICS funded the broader project, which included a pilot at the Royal Melbourne Hospital and significant contributions from community members and health professionals.
The launch also featured a Welcome to Country from Uncle Tony Garvey, a respected Wurundjeri Elder, who set the tone for the event by grounding everyone in the deep connection to the land and its people. His acknowledgment served as a poignant reminder of the importance of respect and cultural safety in healthcare.
The keynote address by Professor Gail Garvey, a proud Kamilaroi woman and a leader in Indigenous health research, explored the profound challenges faced by First Nations peoples in accessing culturally safe healthcare. Professor Garvey highlighted the cancer disparities affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the need for systemic change to ensure equitable care for all.
Professor Jennifer Philip and Marissa Mulcahy also shared insights into the project that led to the toolkit’s creation. Marissa, Victoria’s inaugural First Nations Cancer Coordinator additionally reflected on her experience working alongside patients, families, and clinical teams, stressing the importance of ongoing, culturally responsive care coordination.
The event was made even more meaningful through the contributions of Hello Hydie Flowers, a proud Wadawurrung-run business, which provided floral arrangements, and Jarrah Catering, an Aboriginal-owned company, which catered the event.
WCMICS is proud to support initiatives that embed cultural safety, amplify Aboriginal voices, and strengthen healing across our healthcare system.
