Why equitable cancer care means more than just treatment 

While treatment is an essential part of cancer care, it is not the whole story. Good cancer care also includes equitable emotional, psychological and practical support.  

This perspective recognises how cancer impacts so many facets of our lives, from our physical and mental health to our relationships, work, finances and sense of identity. 

The emphasis on equity also honours the fact that different people have different needs should be available to everyone, no matter where they live, what language they speak, or what their background may be.

What equity really means 

Equity does not mean giving everyone exactly the same thing. It means understanding that different people have different needs – and responding to those needs in a fair and respectful way. 

Some people face more barriers than others when it comes to accessing cancer support. For example: 

• People living in rural or regional areas may have to travel long distances to see a doctor or counsellor 
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people may experience cultural barriers, racism or a lack of culturally safe care 
• People from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds may find it hard to understand medical information or feel unsure about asking for help 
• People with lower incomes may struggle to afford extra costs like transport, cleaning, or mental health support. 

True equity means recognising these differences and working to remove the barriers that prevent people from getting the care they need. 

Beyond the treatment room 

Cancer care should not stop at surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. Many people need support with their emotional wellbeing, especially as they process the stress, fear and uncertainty that comes with a diagnosis. 

That is why Cancer Council NSW offers free cancer counselling to people affected by cancer – including carers, partners and family members. This service is available over the phone, online or in person where possible. 

Our latest evaluation found that the service is making a real impact: 

• 90% of clients felt better able to cope 
• 89% felt more reassured 
• 87% felt less isolated 
• 90% were satisfied or highly satisfied with the support they received. 

These results show that emotional support is not a luxury, but a vital part of recovery.

Reaching communities with greater need 

We are proud that our counselling service is reaching people in communities who often face higher barriers to care. 

In the past year: 

• 7% of clients identified as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander 
• 35% of clients lived in rural or regional areas. 

These figures are higher than the overall population of cancer patients in NSW from those groups. It shows that with the right approach, we can begin to close the gap. 

But there is still work to do.  

We estimate that around 14,000 people in NSW are living with unmet emotional and psychological needs related to cancer. That is why we are continuing to improve access, review referral pathways and expand the service where we can. 

A whole-person approach to care 

When we talk about cancer care, we need to think about the whole person – not just the disease. That includes how someone feels, how they manage daily life, and how they stay connected to others. 

Equity means giving people what they need to get through cancer with dignity, support and hope. It means listening to communities and making sure no one is left behind. 

Because everyone deserves more than treatment. Everyone deserves to feel supported, understood and cared for.