Our Cancer Council 13 11 20 Information and Support Service is staffed by experienced health professionals from Monday to Friday, 9.00 am to 5.00 pm (exc. public holidays).
Please note: We can only call the client themselves. Client consent is required before our experienced health professionals can provide cancer-related information or support. Requests made on someone else’s behalf cannot be actioned, as this may cause distress and breach privacy.
For information on details we collect, please see our Privacy Collection Policy.
What to expect when you call us
Hear from our experienced health professionals on what to expect when you call 13 11 20 and how they can help.
Frequently asked questions
Who can call our 13 11 20 Information and Support Service?
We’re here for every South Australian:
- people living with cancer
- carers
- families and friends
- the general public
- workplaces
- educators
- healthcare professionals.
How can we help?
You can call 13 11 20 with any cancer-related question or concern. Our experienced health professionals can help with:
- Cancer prevention and screening – including advice on sun safety, healthy lifestyle, and early detection
- Clarifying myths and misinformation – get accurate, evidence-based answers
- Understanding diagnosis and treatment – what to expect and how to manage side effects
- Emotional support – for you, your family, or carers
- Evidence-based resources - Access reliable information, fact sheets, and guides to help you make informed decisions
- Referral to other support services – Connect with practical help such as counselling, legal and financial assistance, accommodation, our Healthy Living after Cancer Program or connect you with others who have been through a similar diagnosis.
What support is available outside of business hours?
- Access our Cancer Council Online Community - a safe and supportive space where you have access to forums, blogs and online support groups.
- Visit Beyond Blue or call them on 1300 22 4636.
- For 24-hour crisis support, visit Lifeline or contact them on 13 11 14.
- In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000) or go to an emergency department.
Can I access the service if I do not speak English?
If you need information or support in a language other than English, please call the National Translating and Interpreting Service on 13 14 50 and ask for Cancer Council 13 11 20.
Can I access the service if I am hearing or speech impaired?
If you have hearing or speech difficulties, contact us through the National Relay Service, choose your access option and give the Cancer Council number 13 11 20 when asked.
Dry July Foundation: Supporting Cancer Council’s 13 11 20 service
Since 2019, funds raised through Dry July have supported Cancer Council’s Information and Support Service. Thanks to partners like the Dry July Foundation, our specialists can provide essential cancer information to more than 37,000 callers across Australia each year. Learn more about Dry July here.
