Overview
Support is available to specific community groups in Victoria, often in community languages. These services are for people affected by cancer, their families, friends and carers.
Speak with a cancer nurse in your own language
You can have a free, confidential conversation with an experienced cancer nurse in your own language. Anyone affected by cancer can call our cancer support line, including family members, carers and friends.
- Call 13 14 50, Monday to Friday 9am–5pm.
- Say the language you need.
- Wait on the line for an interpreter (may take up to 3 minutes).
- Ask the interpreter to contact Cancer Council Victoria on 13 11 20.
- Talk with a cancer nurse with the help of an interpreter.
Useful tools
You can ask your doctor or health professional to fill in a multilingual appointment card. This shows the details of your appointment in your language.
You can use the Victorian Interpreter Card to tell people you need an interpreter and for which language.
Guides to best cancer care
A lot can happen in a hurry when you’re diagnosed with cancer. The guides to best cancer care can help you make sense of what should happen. They will help you with what questions to ask your health professionals to make sure you receive the best care at every step. Available in a number of languages.
Find out more
Questions to ask about this service
When looking at a service it is important to ask questions about how the service works before you decide to engage with them. Below is a list of questions you might like to ask when enquiring about a service.
Am I eligible?
Some services have specific criteria that a person must meet before they are able to use a service, for example location, means testing or a specific cancer type. It is important to know if you are eligible to access a service right from the start.
How much will this cost me?
Some services are free, and some come at a cost. At a time when people should be focused on their treatment and recovery, the cost of cancer can be a source of stress and worry for many. It’s a good idea to ask about the fees attached to a service and if there are any subsidies or benefits you might be eligible for before committing to the service. It’s important to know that you are within your rights to ask about the cost of a service or treatment before agreeing to take part. For more information you can visit cancer and your finances.
Is there a wait time?
Sometimes demand for a service is high which can cause wait times. You might find it helpful to ask if there are any wait times for the services you are looking at, especially if you require support as soon as possible.
What services do you offer?
Some organisations provide a range of services for people affected by cancer, their family, friends and carers. It is a good idea to ask about exactly what services are available to you.
More information
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