Get involved and help Queenslanders living with cancer by volunteering. Volunteers are the heart of our organisation. Join us to make a greater impact and connect with like-minded people.
Every contribution helps support those living with cancer. Whether a one-off donation or monthly gift, your support ensures funding stability for long-term goals and future generations.
Leave a legacy by including a gift in your Will, starting a tribute page for a loved one, or funding a research grant for early-career cancer researchers driving clinical innovations.
Organise a fundraising event in your community, either as a team or an individual. You can join one of our existing fundraising events or you might like to come up with your own way.
When organisations work together, we can have a greater impact for every Queenslander going through cancer and help amplify our message for all Australians.
However you get involved, you’re making a direct impact on the lives of Queenslanders affected by cancer. See the results of what we’ve all achieved.
Cancer and its treatment can affect many parts of a person’s life, including work. It can also impact those caring for or working alongside someone going through cancer. Whether you’re an employee facing cancer, a carer, or an employer or colleague wanting to support someone, Cancer Council Queensland offers support and resources to assist people impacted by cancer navigate the workplace.
Our team is here to listen and support you.
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Cancer can impact your work in many ways, not just in terms of how you’re feeling. You may need to attend appointments during your usual work hours or require time off work for cancer treatment or to recover from treatment
While many people living with cancer continue to work during their treatment and recovery, this can depend on:
Talk to your doctor and health care team to understand the average time off work you may need for cancer treatment, or whether it is possible to continue working through your treatment and recovery. Your ability to continue working may also depend on how flexible your employer can be.
Everyone’s situation is unique – what works for one person may not be right for you.While there is a lot of information to process following a cancer diagnosis, try to take time to get the information you need to make the decision best for you.
This booklet contains information about how cancer can affect your ability to work, tips about working during treatment, things to consider when returning to work after a break, information for working carers, and an overview of your rights and entitlements.
Yes, many people continue working before, during, or after cancer treatment, but it depends on various factors, including:
Discuss your job’s demands with your health care team, including travel, hours, and tasks. Ask your doctor how much time off you might need and whether it’s possible to work through treatment or recovery. Flexibility from your employer can also play a big role, allowing options like reduced hours, part-time work, or occasional days off.
Every situation is unique, so focus on what feels practical and right for you.
No, you don’t have to tell your employer about your cancer diagnosis unless it affects your ability to perform your job or poses a safety risk to you or others. It’s a personal decision, and you can choose when—or if—you want to share this information.
If you decide to tell your employer, talking to your doctor first can help you understand how treatment may impact your work. Sharing your diagnosis might allow you to:
If your job may have contributed to your cancer, you may need to notify your employer to explore workers’ compensation options. Check relevant laws to ensure you follow the required steps.
No, it is illegal for your employer to discriminate against you because of your cancer diagnosis or treatment. This includes actions like preventing you from taking leave, demoting you, or firing you due to your condition.
However, if you’re unable to perform the core duties of your role, your employer may have limited grounds to take action. To protect yourself, it’s important to understand your rights and your employer’s responsibilities.
Under Australian law, cancer is considered a disability, and your employer is required to make reasonable adjustments to help you continue working. These changes could include:
Employers must approve reasonable adjustments within 21 days unless it causes significant hardship to their business.
Additional support might include:
You can also discuss ideas with your employer and healthcare team to find the best solutions for your needs.
Deciding whether to share your cancer diagnosis with colleagues is a personal choice. You may feel uncomfortable or vulnerable and may worry about how others will treat you. There are no set rules, so do what feel right for you.
If you choose to tell your employer, you may want to discuss whether or not to share the information with your team. Consider:
If your condition affects your appearance or work schedule, your co-workers may notice changes. Being open can help avoid misunderstandings and support a more understanding workplace. If you share, your close colleagues may offer support and ask how they can help.
