Support groups

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What's a cancer support group?

It's people with cancer and, sometimes, family and friends, meeting regularly to talk about common issues, to provide friendship and practical support.

Support groups often meet at hospitals or community venues. Some groups have a specific-cancer focus (i.e. breast cancer, prostate cancer, etc) while others are open to anyone affected by any type of cancer.

There are over 160 groups across Victoria and every group's different, so it's important to have a chat with the group facilitator about what to expect.

Our cancer support groups follow a self-help model and are run by volunteers. There are internet and phone support groups for those unable to travel, which are a little different, and are run by Cancer Council staff. These often have a specific focus (i.e. younger, women/men, cancer survivors, advanced cancer).  

Support groups 

  • help people to connect with others who've been through a similar cancer journey
  • provide a forum to discuss cancer diagnosis and treatment
  • serve to increase your knowledge about cancer
  • help people learn to live with cancer
  • can help people enjoy life after cancer.

Cancer Voices Victoria

Cancer Voices Victoria is a state-based umbrella organisation for advocacy and support groups. Cancer patients, survivors, carers and medical providers are all involved. Visit their site to learn more.

Group facilitator training

We run seminars for people who facilitate cancer support groups. These include 1-day seminars about facilitation as well as information seminars. 

A guide to setting up a cancer support group is also available. For details or if you feel there may be a need to start a group in your area, call our Support Groups Facilitator on 9635 5000 or 13 11 20.

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