Find Someone to Talk to

Many people and their families often feel fearful and anxious about their diagnosis and impending treatment. Knowledge and support are important in coping with these fears. All hospitals have members of the multidisciplinary team (MDT) who are available to assist in supporting patients and their families during this time. Social workers who specialise in oncology are available at all major hospitals across Australia and offer a range of services such as individual, family and group counselling; education and information; advocacy; and can assist in providing community referrals. The contact numbers below for some of the major support centres.

Australian Cancer Council Helpline

13 11 20 A free, confidential telephone information and support service

Australian Capital Territory

02 6244 2316 Canberra Hospital Social Work Department

New South Wales

02 9382 4910    Prince of Wales Hospital Social Work Department
02 9845 2641    Westmead Children's Hospital Social Work Department
02 9515 6555    Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Social Work Department

Queensland

07 3240 2610 Princess Alexandra Hospital Social Work Department
07 3636 8136 Royal Children's Hospital, Brisbane

Tasmania

03 8222 8354 Royal Hobart Hospital Social Work Department
03 6348 7245 Launceston Hospital

Victoria

03 9656 1031    Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre Social Work Department
03 9656 1744    Victorian Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Service
03 9345 6111    Royal Children's Hospital, Victoria, Social Work Department

Western Australia

08 9340 8222 Princess Margaret Hospital Social Work Department
08 9346 4666 Sir Charles Gardiner Hospital Social Work Department

Updated: 03-Aug-2010 04:51 PM