Cancer Council NSW has released a new report following its “Cancer, Work and You” forum in Tamworth, calling for improved support measures to help people affected by cancer remain in the workforce, particularly those in regional areas.
Opened by local Member for Tamworth, the Hon Kevin Anderson MP, the forum brought together people living with cancer, carers, employers, and Cancer Council NSW representatives to explore the challenges associated with balancing cancer treatment and employment. The session also sought to identify practical solutions to support workforce participation during and after a cancer diagnosis.
“Cancer affects nearly every Australian family, with 2 in 5 people diagnosed by the age of 85,” said Brad Gellert, Manager of the Policy & Advocacy Unit at Cancer Council NSW. “For many, the impact goes beyond physical and emotional challenges – almost half of people with cancer who are of working age are not in the workforce, leading to financial hardship and reduced quality of life.”
Mr Gellert said the loss of income often compounds the stress of a cancer diagnosis.
“This often means struggling to cover essential medical expenses, daily living costs and supporting their families. Without a steady income, many face increased stress and uncertainty, which can affect their overall recovery and wellbeing.”
The Tamworth forum featured group discussions where participants shared lived experiences and proposed potential policy and workplace reforms. Key suggestions included:
- Introducing portable leave entitlements for casual workers
- Providing tax concessions for individuals and businesses affected by cancer
- Reviewing eligibility criteria for government income support
- Enhancing flexible work arrangements
- Improving access to mental health and workplace advice services.
Based on these discussions, Cancer Council NSW has outlined several priority areas for further advocacy. These include:
- Advocating for tax relief, such as waiving capital gains tax or stamp duty when cancer leads to the sale of a home or business
- Strengthening leave protections for casual and contract workers
- Establishing a dedicated workplace advisory service within Cancer Council’s support line
- Working with government to expand carer leave entitlements.
Mr Gellert said the Tamworth forum demonstrates how local voices can drive meaningful change.
“Cancer doesn’t just happen in hospitals, it happens in homes, workplaces and communities. We heard loud and clear that people want to work, but the system isn’t doing enough to support them.”
“Our goal now is to take what we’ve heard in Tamworth and turn those insights into policy reform, so that no one living with cancer has to choose between their health and their livelihood.”
“By prioritising key areas such as workplace protections, flexible financial support, and targeted information services, Cancer Council NSW can continue to drive meaningful change through advocacy and collaboration, because tackling cancer takes all of us.”
To view the full Cancer, Work and You report by Cancer Council NSW, click here.
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