Seat at the Table program

Since 2001, BCNA has run the internationally recognised Seat at the Table (SATT) program.

The program trains people with a lived experience of breast cancer to become BCNA Consumer Representatives (CRs). Our CRs work with clinicians, researchers, health service providers and policymakers across Australia to make sure consumer voices are at the heart of any decisions.

Our CRs come from diverse backgrounds and experiences. This is shown in their ability to represent the wider breast cancer community, not only their own experience.

For more information read the 2021 article published in Health Voices: Journal of the Consumers Health Forum of Australia

What BCNA Consumer Representatives do

BCNA CRs work on a variety of projects, with varying time commitments, including 

• providing consumer input on research projects
• co-designing services and supports for people affected by breast cancer
• representing the views of those affected by breast cancer on government advisory committees
• contributing to BCNA’s research reports, submissions, campaigns and other projects
• supporting research grant applications
• assisting with the development of information resources and publications
• presenting findings at key conferences and other speaking opportunities.

About the role

A BCNA CR is someone diagnosed with breast cancer who BCNA trains to represent the broad views, needs and experiences of people affected by breast cancer. BCNA’s CRs do not simply express personal opinions and experiences. Instead, they speak on behalf of our network, as well as our policy and advocacy priorities.

The role is voluntary, and people diagnosed with breast cancer in all states and territories are welcome to apply. CRs are expected to attend a set number of virtual ‘get togethers’ and training opportunities organised by BCNA every year, as well as completing quarterly reporting requirements.

For more information on the role of our CRs please contact us through our contact form. When completing the form, select ‘Become a lived experience consumer’ from the dropdown menu.

Training and support

Our Consumer Representatives have completed BCNA's Consumer Representative Training program. The program includes three online courses

• Who is BCNA
• The Science of Breast Cancer
• The Role of the Cancer Consumer Representative.

Following the courses is an in-person two-day workshop with BCNA’s Consumer Engagement, Executive and Policy and Advocacy teams.

The BCNA Consumer Engagement Team works closely with our CRs. We check in regularly and help identify any extra learning or support they may need.

Working with BCNA Consumer Representatives

BCNA’s trained CRs actively contribute to projects, studies, committees, and other work concerned with improving outcomes for those affected by cancer.

CRs are not only storytellers. They are equipped with the skills and knowledge to represent the broader experience of a breast cancer diagnosis, as well as BCNA’s policy and advocacy priorities. They also bring their diverse professional and personal backgrounds.

Our CRs work with researchers, government, service providers, academic institutes, and other cancer organisations.  

If you would like more information about how a BCNA CR could work with you, please contact us through our contact form. When completing the form, select ‘Work with us and our consumers’ from the dropdown menu.