Resources for employers
The fact sheets below are designed to support managers and human resources staff in assisting employees affected by cancer.
They provide clear, practical information about cancer, common treatments, and potential side effects, along with guidance on how to support employees who have received a cancer diagnosis.
Cancer: an overview
Almost 40% of new cancer cases in Australia occur in people of working age, so workplaces are often required to support employees affected by cancer.
To help you create a cancer-friendly workplace, this fact sheet provides general information about cancer, its risk factors and current treatments. It also addresses some key myths about cancer.
Creating cancer-friendly workplaces
Workplaces are a valuable source of support for many people affected by cancer.
This fact sheet looks at how workplaces can support employees with cancer – and carers – during and after treatment.
Death and bereavement
Many people with cancer will be successfully treated and live for many years, but not everyone will recover. If an employee dies from cancer, their co-workers may need support. Similarly, you may need to support an employee after a family member or friend has died from cancer.
This fact sheet is a starting point for managers dealing with death and bereavement in their teams.
Managing the effects of treatment
This fact sheet is an introduction to the most common cancer treatments and their side effects.
It includes information about the possible effects of treatment on an employee’s ability to work, and strategies for managing side effects in the workplace.
Supporting a co-worker with cancer
The news that someone you work with has been diagnosed with cancer can be a shock. It’s common to feel a variety of emotions – from disbelief, fear and anxiety, to concern or sadness. It may be even more confronting if you, or someone close to you, has had cancer.
This fact sheet has information to help you support your co-worker after their cancer diagnosis.
Talking to an employee about cancer
Talking with an employee about cancer can feel daunting. You may be concerned about their wellbeing, and balancing their needs or rights with those of the workplace.
This fact sheet has suggestions for how to approach a conversation about cancer with an employee.
Cancer in the workplace: other support
Cancer Council offers various support services, which are free of charge for eligible people with cancer and their family, friends and co-workers. There are also specific resources available for carers.
Support is available from a wide range of organisations. Download this fact sheet for details.