Nursing Excellence in Cancer Care - Cancer Nurses Society of Australia Podcast

Introducing AusCaN: What the New Capability Framework Means for Cancer Nurses

Australia’s cancer nursing workforce now has a contemporary national capability framework. In this episode hosted by CNSA CEO Jemma Still, Dr Carla Thamm, Professor Gemma McErlean, Nikki Dean and Dr Pammie Ellem reflect on why the Australian Cancer Nursing Capability Framework, or AusCaN Framework, was needed, how it was developed and what it could mean for cancer nurses, educators and health services. Building on the important legacy of the EdCaN Framework, AusCaN reflects the changing complexity and breadth of modern cancer nursing practice. The conversation explores the move from competency to capability, the Framework’s Essential, Specialised and Advanced levels, and its four domains of Clinical Practice, Education, Leadership and Management, and Research and Innovation. The panel also discusses how the Framework can support professional development, education, career pathways and workforce planning, and what CNSA will do to help bring it to life in practice.

The Rise of Precision Medicine in Lung Cancer and the Role of the MDT

This episode explores the rapidly evolving landscape of lung cancer treatment, from the removal of stigma in general practice to the emergence of targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and precision medicine. The panel discusses the critical role of the multidisciplinary team — particularly cancer nurses — in treatment coordination, toxicity management, and patient education, with a focus on meeting patients where they are across diverse cultural, social, and clinical backgrounds. Hosted by Melanie Rabbets, Oncology Nurse Practitioner at Blacktown Cancer Care, Western Sydney, and joined by Associate Professor Mal Itchins, Medical Oncologist and trialist at Royal North Shore Hospital and Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Sydney, and Dr Renae Grundy, Lung Cancer Clinical Nurse Consultant at Royal Hobart Hospital, Tasmania. Sponsored by Pfizer.

Elevating Cancer Nursing: CNSA's 2026 Vision

In this episode of Nursing Excellence in Cancer Care, CNSA CEO Jemma Still and President Anne Mellon unpack why 2026 is a pivotal year for cancer nursing in Australia. They discuss workforce pressures and burnout, the redevelopment of the Australian Cancer Nursing Framework, national moves toward post‑graduate accreditation, and CNSA’s new cancer nursing education portal. Jemma and Anne also highlight practical tools like the GYNcare resource, the mentoring program, the Australian Cancer Nursing and Navigation Program, and upcoming events including Congress in Perth and Cancer Nurses Day, all designed to better support cancer nurses in all locations, and enhance care for people affected by cancer.

Talking about Dying with Palliative Care Nurses Australia

Jemma Still, CNSA CEO, has a candid conversation with palliative care nurses Holly Pitt and Kate Swetenham about the real, human side of end‑of‑life cancer care. They explore what palliative care nursing really involves, how oncology and palliative teams can work together, and practical ways to respond when patients and families ask confronting questions like “Am I dying?” – using curiosity, silence, honesty and kindness to support people at their most vulnerable. Resources available here: https://www.pcna.org.au/

Oncology Unscripted: Guiding Patients through Cancer Treatment

In Episode 22, we explore the importance of communication with individuals living with cancer. Lisa Sheeran, a Breast Cancer Clinical Nurse Consultant, and Maria Ftanou, the Director of the Psychosocial Oncology Unit at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre in Melbourne, discuss "Oncology Unscripted: Guiding Patients through Cancer Treatment." They share best-practice examples for helping patients navigate their diagnosis whilst dealing with the complex and diverse emotions that arise during their diagnosis and treatment.