Poster Presentation Clinical Oncology Society of Australia Annual Scientific Meeting 2026

Strengthening cultural safety through place-based learning: Reflections from an Australian Comprehensive Cancer Network delegation to the Northern Territory (146481)

Lisa Whop 1 , Chris Milross 2 3 , Jacinta Elston 4 5 , Claire Howlett 5
  1. Yardhura Walani, National Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Wellbeing Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
  2. Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
  3. Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
  4. School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
  5. Cancer Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia

Aims

Improving cancer outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people requires a culturally safe cancer workforce and meaningful engagement with First Nations communities. Cancer Australia facilitated an Australian Comprehensive Cancer Network (ACCN) Northern Territory (NT) learning experience for senior cancer clinicians and leaders. This abstract explores the key insights from delegates, and the contribution of place-based learning to strengthening cultural safety in cancer care.

Methods

A delegation of senior clinical leaders participated in an eight-day visit to the NT in August 2025. Activities included site visits to cancer services and Aboriginal Community Controlled organisations in Darwin where delegates saw innovative, place‑based models of care, followed by participation in the Garma Festival in northeast Arnhem Land. The experience centred around learning, dialogue, and deep reflection among clinical leaders. Delegates reflected on their experiences through facilitated post-visit discussions.

Results

Delegates reported increased understanding of the cultural, community, and health system factors influencing cancer care for First Nations peoples. Key themes included the importance of culturally safe models of care, partnerships with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, the value of listening to community leadership, and the role of reflection in challenging assumptions and strengthening clinical practice. The combination of service visits and cultural immersion created opportunities for deeper engagement than traditional professional development activities and helped identify practical actions to support culturally safe cancer care. Reflections and insights were shared with ACCN members via the online ACCN Discussion Forum to support improved cancer care for First Nations communities across Australia.

Conclusions

On-country learning experiences complement conventional workforce education approaches by creating opportunities for deeper cultural understanding, relationship-building, and reflection. The ACCN NT experience demonstrates how immersive engagement with communities, services, and culture can support cancer sector leaders to strengthen cultural safety and contribute to more equitable cancer care.