Aim:
Strengthening culturally safe, coordinated cancer care is a key priority for improving cancer experiences and outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. This project aimed to develop a statewide Aboriginal Cancer Coordination Model of Care, Foundational Model and Service Framework to guide consistent, culturally responsive cancer coordination across Victoria while enabling local adaptation by Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) and health services.
Methods:
An Aboriginal-led planning and design process was undertaken between February and May 2026, 32 consultations engaged 88 stakeholders, including Aboriginal Community members with lived experience of cancer, Aboriginal Health Workers, Aboriginal Liaison Officers, clinicians, health service leaders, government representatives and cancer agencies. Consultation findings informed the development of three complementary components: a Foundational Model (vision, purpose, principles and outcomes), a Model of Care describing Aboriginal Cancer Coordinator roles across the cancer journey, and a Service Framework outlining governance, implementation and system enablers.
Results:
The consultation process consistently highlighted the importance of self-determination, Aboriginal leadership, cultural safety, holistic and wrap-around care, continuity across the cancer journey, and strong partnerships between ACCHOs and other health services. These findings informed a strengths-based, adaptable framework supporting culturally responsive cancer care across the screening pathway through to treatment and supportive care and Journey to the Dreaming. Implementation has commenced and five ACCHOs have been successful in receiving funding for six Aboriginal Cancer Coordinator positions, providing an early opportunity to embed the model in practice and strengthen coordinated cancer care across all settings of care.
Conclusion:
This Aboriginal-led Model of Care and Framework provides a practical, strengths-based foundation to support culturally safe, responsive cancer care across Victoria. Developed through extensive engagement with Aboriginal Communities, ACCHOs and key stakeholders, it offers a flexible framework to guide implementation, strengthen partnerships and support coordinated, culturally responsive cancer care and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.