Cancer Support Officer

Note: This is an Identified position for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People. Aboriginality is a genuine qualification authorised under Section 14(d) of the Anti-Discrimination Action 1977.

Wellington Aboriginal Corporation Health Service (WACHS) is an Aboriginal community-controlled health organisation that aims to empower Aboriginal people to take control of their individual family and community health and wellbeing needs through our clinical and community programs.

Our main services are in Wellington Dubbo Western Sydney Penrith Nepean and Blue Mountains and we provide outreach services to other towns and communities through our regional programs.

About the Role:

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Cancer Support Officer to provide practical day-to-day support and assistance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people/families and community with navigating the health and community support systems involved in and around the cancer journey. This will involve stakeholder mapping establishing referral pathways to support services and liaison with medical and non-medical staff.

Key Duties:

act as an advocate as appropriate including attending and contributing to family meetings and addressing barriers to accessing cancer services

support community members to attend cancer screening activities

accompany community members to diagnostic testing liaising with medical staff to arrange and confirm appointments

accompany community members to cancer treatments including organising transport where required and liaise with medical and treating teams as required

provide ongoing supportive care between appointments including facilitating access to medicines food and other necessities as well as arranging financial and psychological support

provide culturally appropriate resources and education to help and guide community members on their cancer journey

facilitate communications between the community member the community-controlled organisation mainstream services and families

contribute and participate in a Community of Practice to strengthen the role of the Cancer Support Officer and improve outcomes for community members

other duties as directed by the direct manager

Essential Criteria:

proven knowledge and understanding of local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and issues that may affect health outcomes

understanding and knowledge of specialist medical allied health and support services available for the Wellington Community

excellent communication time management and organisational skills

demonstrate respect for individual rights and self-determination

ability to uphold ethical standards respecting colleagues and clients maintaining confidentiality and ensuring a safe and fair work environment

A Certificate of Aboriginality

Working with Children and Criminal Record check clearances and a current NSW Drivers Licence

COVID and other relevant vaccinations

Desirable Criteria:

experience working professionally in a health and/or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled setting would be an advantage but is not necessary

qualifications in a relevant discipline such as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care public health community services health promotion and engagement or similar are preferred

Benefits:

A competitive salary

Generous not-for-profit salary packaging

Becoming an integral part of an enthusiastic and diligent NFP Organisation

For any enquiries please feel free to contact us at