Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has encouraged local men to prioritise regular health checks after joining the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia’s Big Aussie Barbie and Day of Action at Parliament House.
The event brought together parliamentarians, specialist prostate cancer nurses, survivors and families to raise awareness of prostate cancer and the importance of support throughout diagnosis, treatment and recovery.
Mr Chester said about 29,000 Australian men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year, while more than 300,000 men are living after a diagnosis.
“Those numbers are significant, and behind every diagnosis is a man, a family and loved ones who may need ongoing information, treatment and support,” Mr Chester said.
“The event was a valuable opportunity to hear directly from survivors, families and specialist nurses about the difference early conversations, regular health checks and good support can make.”
Mr Chester said the work of Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses was particularly important, including for men living in regional communities where access to specialist health services can already be more difficult.
“Specialist prostate cancer nurses do an outstanding job supporting men and their families through what can be an incredibly stressful and uncertain time,” Mr Chester said.
“They help patients understand treatment options, manage side effects, navigate recovery and access support for their physical and psychological wellbeing.
“For regional patients, having access to that specialist support can make an enormous difference.”
The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia’s national network currently includes 131 specialist nurses.
The Day of Action also highlighted concerns about the future of the service, with the Albanese Government’s current funding arrangements for 96 PCFA Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses due to end from July 1, 2027.
Mr Chester said the event was also an important reminder for Gippsland men not to ignore their own health.
“Too many blokes put off going to the doctor or assume everything will be fine,” Mr Chester said.
“My message to men across Gippsland is simple: don’t put your health on the back burner.
“Have the conversation with your doctor about prostate cancer screening, understand your individual risk and make regular health checks part of looking after yourself.
“Early conversations and early detection can make a real difference.”
Pictured: Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester with Ambassador for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, former Member for Robertson The Hon. Jim Lloyd and Co-Chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Prostate Cancer Awareness, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox.
