In 2024, the VCCC Alliance received $962,276 from the Australian Government’s Cancer Patient Support Program grants to help drive improvements in regional cancer care, as part of a national regional workforce educational strategy.
The grant has enabled the Empowering regional cancer care program. Building on the success of the pilot VCCC Alliance program, the Regional Cancer Partnership Forums, the new program is delivering evidence-based resources for regional healthcare professionals including medical specialists, nurses, allied health professionals, researchers, educators, other generalist and specialist health professionals, and consumer advocates.
A National Steering Group governs the project, with 36 representatives across all states, territories and disciplines, including 11 consumer advocates and 2 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health leaders. The Project is Co-Led by VCCC Alliance Regional and Rural Education and Research Lead Dr. Sam Harris, with lived experience leaders Melissa Sheldon and Sarah Lukeman.
Get involved
Bimonthly National Regional Cancer Forum Series
Rotating across regional health services nationwide, featuring real-world case studies, lived consumer experiences, culturally appropriate practices, and expert Q&As.
‘Author in the Room’ Journal Club Podcast
An interactive deep dive into peer-reviewed research with authors and regional clinicians, aligning education with the latest international best practices.
National Regional Cancer Hub
A growing collection of recorded sessions, clinical guidelines, patient support materials, and additional learning tools accessible anytime, anywhere.
Visit the hub
Online Discussion Forum
A collaborative discussion space for regional health professionals to share insights, challenges and solutions, fostering a stronger national network, hosted on the Australian Comprehensive Cancer Network (ACCN)
Visit the forum
Want to learn more about the VCCC Alliance’s work in Victoria’s regions? The Regional Equity Program funded by the Victorian Government is connecting researchers, healthcare professionals, regional cancer services, patients and their communities to build workforce capability in health equity.
