Culturally diverse communities

We recognise that Victoria is one of the most culturally diverse states in Australia and we are committed to reducing the impact of cancer in culturally diverse communities in Victoria.

Approximately 24% of total cancer diagnoses in Victoria are in people born in non-English speaking countries. The limited research available from Australia suggests that people from culturally diverse backgrounds experience poorer cancer outcomes including:

• worse cancer outcomes compared to the general community
• low quality of life indicators
• low cancer screening levels
• low participation rate in supportive care programs
• less likely to report side effects from treatment.

The Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities consist of the key targeted underscreened populations for cervical, breast and bowel screening programs. Alcohol and smoking rates are also higher in some CALD communities compared to the general population.

 

Commitment

Cultural Diversity Plan Cancer Council Victoria's Cultural Diversity Plan 2013–2016 outlines the overarching priorities, strategies and outcomes we aim to achieve. It aims to improve the way we operate as an organisation by improving communication of information, providing inclusive services and programs, and improving ways we engage with diverse communities in Victoria. There are three main priorities: Recognise and promote cultural diversity as a key  component of Cancer Council Victoria's work Build our understanding of cultural diversity to provide the best cancer support and information to all Victorians Form partnerships to engage with diverse communities and deliver appropriate and responsive programs and services. These priorities have been identified through combined findings from consultations, research and a cultural audit of the organisation conducted in 2012. Download the Cultural Diversity Plan 2013–2016.

MOU with Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria  Cancer Council Victoria signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria in 2014 to work together in preventing cancer in Victoria's multicultural communities. Download the MOU with Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria.

 

Bilingual Health Facilitators

The Cancer Council Victoria Cultural Diversity Program has employed Bilingual Health Facilitators in a range of languages to promote cancer prevention and Quit Victoria messages to CALD community groups. These messages are delivered through community engagement activities (e.g. Relay for Life) and ethnic media.

 

Programs and resources

Cancer Council Victoria offers a range of programs and resources to culturally and linguistically diverse communities. To find out more, visit the links below:

• Download Cancer Council Victoria resources in various languages.
• Order printed Cancer Council Victoria resources.
• Download or order Quit Victoria resources.
• Use the Multilingual printable appointment card to translate appointment details in to the preferred language, which then can be printed for clients.
• Talk to a Cancer Council nurse in the preferred language with the help of a free interpreter. This is available to anyone affected by cancer, their families and friends, as well as health professionals, for the cost of a local call (except from mobiles).
• Find a cancer support group for Greek, Italian, Chinese and Jewish communities. For more details see our support groups page or call 13 14 50. 
  
  

Contact us

If you would like to give us any feedback or more information about cultural diversity at Cancer Council Victoria, or provide feedback on our website, please email diversity@cancervic.org.au

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