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Local Government Sun Safety Community of Practice

Cancer Council Queensland and the Queensland Government recognise the important role that local governments play in skin cancer prevention.  

We’re here to help enable local governments in Queensland to maximise their sun-safe practice, and champion skin cancer prevention in the community. 

If you are a local government or organisation in Queensland, you can register to join our Local Government Sun Safety Community of Practice. It will enable you to learn more about this important topic and receive relevant tips for enhancing sun safety in your organisation and community.
 

Community of Practice meeting dates and times

October 2024  Tuesday, 29 October | 10am-11am
November 2024  Tuesday, 26 November | 10am-11am​
February 2025  Tuesday, 25 February | 10am-11am​
March 2025  Tuesday, 25 March​​ | 10am-11am
April 2025  Tuesday, 29 April | 10am-11am​

Register to join

 

Frequently asked questions

Who can I contact if I have more questions about the Community of Practice?
Contact Cancer Council Queensland’s Prevention and Early Detection team by emailing ReducingCancerRisk@cancerqld.org.au
What information do I need to provide to register?
Registration consist of questions relating to personal information, preferred topics and times to attend meetings and current sun safety initiatives.
What happens within the Community of Practice?
Our Community of Practice brings together individuals who share a common interest in reducing sun exposure risks within their organisations. The group collaborates, shares knowledge and supports each other in implementing effective sun safety practices.
Who can join the Local Government Sun Safe Community of Practice?
The Community of Practice is open to local governments and local organisations in Queensland, for examples community groups and sporting clubs.
Do I need to attend all the Community of Practice sessions?
It is best to attend all the sessions to get the most value, but if you miss one, don’t worry—you can always catch up with the recorded sessions.
Will there be any costs associated with joining the Community of Practice?
No. The Community of Practice is free to join.
What topics will be covered in the Community of Practice?
We are taking on a human-centred approach to the Community of Practice, meaning that the topics will be based on what is important to you and other group members.
What if I don’t want to share confidential information?
Share only what you’re comfortable with and in line with your organisation’s guidelines.
Why is sun protection so important for the community?
Queensland has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Most skin cancers, including melanoma, are caused by over-exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources, such as solariums. No matter your skin tone, everyone’s skin can be damaged from excess exposure to UV radiation. UV radiation is an invisible danger because we can’t see or feel it. Each time your skin is exposed to UV radiation, the skin cells and how they behave are affected. Overexposure to UV radiation from the sun or solarium use causes permanent damage that adds up over time.
Why is sun protection so important in the workplace, particularly for outdoor workers?
Those who spend all or part of the day regularly working outdoors are at increased risk of skin cancer.


Find out about cancer rates in your local government area below.

Explore the Australian Cancer Atlas

 

Useful resources when it comes to planning, sun safety and shade: 

  • SunSmart App – Download the free SunSmart app on IOS or Android to access a free daily UV alert. 

Useful resources for council workers and the community: 

Not-for-profit organisations catering to children aged 0-18 in your region are eligible to apply for Cancer Council Queensland’s Portable Shade Project grant. This project provides marquees to success applicants.

Learn more