Update on Commonwealth-funded prostate cancer nurse positions
The Australian Government has announced that the administration of Commonwealth-funded prostate cancer nurse positions will transition to the McGrath Foundation from 1 July 2027.
We recognise this announcement has raised questions for people affected by prostate cancer, nurses, health services and the broader community. Below is some information about what has been announced so far.
Commonwealth-funded prostate cancer nurse positions will remain specialist prostate cancer nurse positions.
The Commonwealth-funded prostate cancer nurse positions transitioning to the McGrath Foundation will continue to provide specialist prostate cancer nursing care to patients and families. Their clinical focus and expertise in prostate cancer care will continue.
Specialist cancer care is at the heart of the McGrath Model of Care.
More than 430 McGrath Cancer Care Nurses currently support Australians across many cancers, providing specialist care in specific cancer types or clinical settings. Prostate cancer nurse positions that transition to the McGrath Foundation will continue to be specialist prostate cancer nurse positions.
What this means for men with prostate cancer and their families.
People with prostate cancer and their families will continue to have access to specialist prostate cancer nursing care and support, helping patients and families navigate diagnosis, treatment and life beyond cancer.
The announcement by the Australian Government is about who administers and supports Commonwealth-funded prostate cancer nurse positions.
Federal Government funding will continue
The Federal Government has confirmed the same level of ongoing funding for specialist prostate cancer nursing positions. There is no cut to the level of Government funding for these positions.
Why the change?
The Australian Cancer Plan highlights the need to achieve greater equity in cancer care and treatment. The Government developed the Australian Cancer Nursing & Navigation Program, with the aim of ensuring people experiencing cancer can access the same standard of specialist support regardless of where they live or the type of cancer they have.
The transition of Commonwealth-funded prostate cancer nurse positions to the McGrath Foundation is part of the implementation of this program.
What happens next?
Over the coming months, the McGrath Foundation intends to work closely with the Australian Government and all stakeholders to develop transition arrangements.
Our commitment
Our priority throughout this transition is ensuring people with prostate cancer and their families continue to receive the highest level of specialist nursing care and support.
We are committed to working with all stakeholders to support patients, families and clinicians through this process.