Waitlist now open for July 2026
Losing someone you love to cancer can feel isolating. Many people find comfort in connecting with others who truly understand what grief can be like. We are currently accepting expressions of interest for our next group, expected to commence in July 2026.
This group is free, national, run online, and facilitated by two Cancer Council qualified health care professionals. The group runs for six consecutive weekly sessions, with the same members attending each week to create a safe, supportive, and confidential space.
You may find this group helpful if:
You live in Australia (Australian resident) and are 18 years or older.
You have lost a family member or close friend to a cancer related illness.
Your bereavement occurred at least 3 months ago and within the past 2 years.
You can attend all six weekly sessions and have access to a phone, tablet or computer with internet access, and a quiet space for the one-hour calls.
The group is confidential and offers a safe space to share at your own pace.
>> Join the waitlist for the next group
If you would like to be considered for the July 2026 Life After Loss group, please call 1300 755 632 (Supportive Care) by 30 June 2026.
After you call, one of our facilitators will complete a brief registration conversation with you to ensure the group is the right fit and to add you to the waitlist. Because this is a closed group, places are limited and are offered as they become available.
Hi everyone,
Cancer Council has recently updated its booklet Understanding Pancreatic Cancer, with a clinical review to reflect current information and treatments.
The latest version includes updates on risk factors, targeted therapy and immunotherapy, and clearer explanations in the glossary.
This resource is there for anyone affected by pancreatic cancer — whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting someone else, or just looking for reliable information to revisit in your own time.
👉 You can find the updated booklet here.
As always, take what feels helpful and leave the rest. And you live in Australia and would like to speak with someone directly, Cancer Council’s team of health professionals are available to support you on 13 11 20.
Sending care to you all,
Miranda CCNSW
Hi everyone, A new resource is now available for anyone who may be finding it difficult to reach out for support.
Many people affected by cancer share that asking for help can feel complicated - whether because they are used to being independent, are unsure what they need, or worry about placing pressure on others. These feelings are completely valid and very common.
'How to Ask for Help' is a practical guide designed to support people in exploring their needs, beginning conversations, and seeking help in ways that feel safe and manageable.
👉 Read 'How to Ask for Help' here.
Everyone is welcome to use the guide in whatever way feels right for them and at whatever pace feels comfortable. If you would like to talk to someone directly for support or guidance, Cancer Council’s compassionate team of health professionals are available on 13 11 20.
Sending care to everyone.
Miranda
CCNSW
The Thing About Advanced Cancer is a podcast series that is produced by Cancer Council, to help people affected by advanced cancer to navigate these challenging times.
A podcast is an audio file similar to a radio broadcast, which can be downloaded
and listened to on a computer, mp3 player, mobile phone, etc - Collins Dictionary
If you are affected by cancer, you've no doubt many questions to ask.
Cancer Council NSW has created a series of podcasts to tackle common questions such as 'how do I cope with a cancer diagnosis?', 'how do I decide what treatment to have?', 'how do I manage pain?', 'I can't sleep, what can I do?', 'will my sex life change?' or 'how do I tell the kids?'.
This first series is called "The Thing About Cancer", and has since been followed up with a second series tackling issues experienced by those with advanced cancers, "The Thing About Advanced Cancer". A third series, produced this year, focuses on Cancer and COVID-19.
The podcasts are hosted by Julie McCrossin, an Australian radio broadcaster, journalist, comedian, political commentator and activist. Listen as she explains why podcasts are so important for people with cancer.
Our first podcast series, The Thing About Cancer consists of the following episodes:
Welcome episode: What is ‘The Thing About Cancer’?
Sex and Cancer
Managing Cancer Fatigue
Explaining Cancer to Kids
Appetite Loss and Nausea
New Cancer Treatments – Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapy
Genetic Tests and Cancer
Managing Fear
Sleep and Cancer
Managing Cancer Pain
Brain Fog and Cancer
Tests and Cancer
Family Dynamics and Cancer
How to Help Someone with Cancer
Making Treatment Decisions
Cancer Affects the Carer Too
Coping with a Cancer Diagnosis
Why not check out our introductory podcast below?
Cancer Council has developed a series of resources for people with cancer, as well as their families and friends, that are easy-to-read and absorb. They cover specific types of cancer and treatments, as well as practical and emotional challenges.
They are available in the following subject areas:
Types of Cancer
Treatment and side effects
Coping with cancer and recovery
After your cancer treatment
Prevention and general information
Check out the full list of what is available and download those you are interested in.
You can also contact Cancer Council on 13 11 20 and request they be mailed out to you.
Taking time out each day to relax can help you feel better as you or a loved one face a cancer diagnosis and cope with the challenges of treatment and recovery.