BCNA Builds Stronger Partnerships for First Peoples Breast Cancer Care
10 Jul 2026
The visit brought together BCNA Chief Executive Officer Kirsten Pilatti, Board Chair Gabrielle Coyne and Deputy Chair Professor Jacinta Elston, who met with community members, healthcare workers and local leaders on Palm Island.
Discussions focused on breast cancer screening, access to treatment and the importance of culturally safe healthcare. Community members shared their experiences of navigating the health system and highlighted the need for care that is designed and led by local communities.
BCNA said trust remains a key factor in encouraging more First Peoples to access breast cancer screening and treatment. The organisation also heard that culturally responsive care and stronger community partnerships are essential to improving health outcomes.
During the visit, the team met with Aunty Liela Murison, who highlighted the importance of maintaining breast screening services in communities and ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people see themselves represented within healthcare services.
BCNA noted that breast screening participation among First Peoples remains lower than the national average, reinforcing the need to improve awareness, access and culturally appropriate support.
The organisation also met with GPs, Women's Health Officers and First Peoples support workers, who described the practical and cultural challenges faced by women travelling from Palm Island to Townsville for treatment.
BCNA said the visit has strengthened its commitment to working alongside First Peoples communities to improve breast cancer care through community-led solutions and culturally safe healthcare.
BCNA Builds Stronger Partnerships for First Peoples Breast Cancer Care
Source: Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA)