Federal government moves prostate cancer nurses to McGrath Foundation in 2027
Government will transfer 60.5 prostate cancer nurses from one charity to another from July 1, 2027, despite warnings of harm.
From July 1, 2027, the federal government will transfer funding for 60.5 prostate cancer nurses from the Prostate Cancer Foundation to McGrath Foundation. Prostate Cancer Foundation chief Anne Savage warns the transfer will lower care standards and increase costs.
Savage said some specialist nurses will likely refuse to move to the new employer. Savage also said the loss of specialist support could cost lives.
Martin Fisk, 59, diagnosed with stage three prostate cancer, relies on his Prostate Cancer Foundation nurse at Canberra Hospital. Fisk's nurse coordinates his treatment team and provides emotional support.
- 60.5 full-time equivalent positions
- Nurses to transfer
- 35
- Additional nurses funded by foundation
- July 1, 2027
- Transfer date
- Stage three prostate cancer
- Fisk's diagnosis
Why it mattersCancer patients will lose access to specialist nurses trained in prostate cancer care and psychosocial support.
