For workers

Work is a significant part of life for many. If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, you might be concerned about how it will impact your job. This information can help you find a work arrangement that fits your unique needs.

Cover image for Cancer, Work and You booklet

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Key questions about cancer and work

Find out if you can continue working after a cancer diagnosis, if you need to disclose it at work, and your right to privacy.

Making decisions about working

Explore your options and what to consider before making a decision about your working life.

Working during treatment or recovery

You can consider flexible work options or leave entitlements if you plan to work during or after treatment.

Coping with side effects

Tips for managing common side effects like fatigue, nausea, and appearance changes while working.

Returning to work

It's normal to feel nervous about returning to work after a cancer diagnosis, whether after treatment ends or while balancing work and ongoing care.

Self-employment

If you're a business owner, freelancer, contractor, farmer, or entrepreneur, you may worry about keeping your business running after a cancer diagnosis.

Working while caring

Balancing care duties, family, and work can be tough. Explore available support, leave options, and helpful strategies to manage.

Workplace rights

Many fear discrimination or dismissal if they tell their employer about having cancer or needing time off to care for a family member. However, laws are in place to protect you.

Where to find support

A list of helpful organisations and resources for employed individuals with cancer and their caregivers.

Information for employers

Over 40% of new cancer cases in Australia occur in people of working age, so it is not unusual for a manager to provide support to an employee affected by cancer. Workplaces are also an important source of support for many people with cancer. Find information to help managers and human resource professionals create supportive working environments for employees with cancer or caring responsibilities.

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Need to talk?

Call 13 11 20 to talk to a health professional Or email us your questions.

This information was last updated in August 2026. See who reviewed this content.

Emma Foley, Chair, QPiLOT OT Cancer Collaborative QLD and Senior Cancer Care Occupational Therapist, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, QLD; Jackie Hamilton, Partner, Dentons Australia, QLD. This edition is based on the previous edition, which was reviewed by the following panel: Brooke Russell, Principal Occupational Therapist, WA Cancer Occupational Therapy, WA; Bianca Alessi, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council SA; Dr Prunella Blinman, Medical Oncologist, Concord Cancer Centre, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, NSW; James Chirgwin, Physiotherapist, The Wesley Hospital, QLD; Danielle Curnoe, Consumer; Simon Gates, Barrister, Tasmanian Bar, TAS; Justin Hargreaves, Medical Oncology Nurse Practitioner, Bendigo Health Cancer Centre, VIC; Kaylene Jacques, Director, People and Communications, Cancer Council NSW; Alex Kelly, Senior People Attraction Advisor, Human Resources,
Allianz Australia Insurance, NSW; Legal reviewer; Georgina Lohse, Social Worker, GV Health, VIC; Lesley McQuire, Consumer, Cancer Voices NSW.

View the Cancer Council NSW editorial policy.