Background
A skilled, sustainable cancer workforce is essential to high-quality, equitable cancer care. The North Eastern Melbourne Integrated Cancer Service (NEMICS) is a cancer service improvement network comprising four metropolitan health services. Part of their cancer workforce strategy is an annual Professional Development Grants Program that helps strengthen staff capability, advances health service priorities and aligns with the Victorian Cancer Plan (VCP).
Aim
To evaluate the reach, outcomes and strategic alignment of the 2025 NEMICS Professional Development Grants Program.
Method
Program data were reviewed, including applications, funding allocation, activity type and health service grant distribution. Results from a post-activity survey of grant recipients were analysed for knowledge and skills gained, dissemination plans, anticipated impacts on patient care, and alignment with health service and VCP priorities.
Results
Grants totalling $77,520.60 were awarded to 42 of the 64 applications made in the 2025 grant round, reaching 123 staff. All member health services received funding, with funded activities spanning conference attendance (48%), skills-based training (45%), and higher education (7%). Extended scope of practice was supported by 4 of 19 skills-based training grants, improving access to specialist cancer care typically requiring referral. Topics included speech pathology-led lymphoedema management for head and neck cancer patients; nurse-led ultrasound to venous access, ascites or deep vein thrombosis management; and nurse-led cervical screening for high-risk patients. Survey results identified increased knowledge in cancer treatment and supportive care, stronger professional networks, and planned dissemination through staff education, clinical practice change and service improvement initiatives. Reported outcomes aligned strongly with the VCP.
Conclusion
The NEMICS Professional Development Grants Program demonstrates how targeted regional investment can build cancer workforce capability. Evaluation results showed high workforce engagement, broad reach, strong alignment with state cancer priorities, and reported benefits for clinical practice, service improvement and patient care, supporting its continuation in future.