I am an employer

Breast cancer not only affects people physically, but also emotionally and financially.

If you are an employer, manager, supervisor or human resources representative and one of your employees is diagnosed with breast cancer, you play an important role in supporting them in the workplace.

As a manager, it’s important to remember there is no one-size-fits-all solution, it’s really about understanding the particular situation and being flexible and adaptable.
 

How to support your employee

Supporting your employee can make a big difference to them and their ability to continue to do their job. It can also mean you meet your legal obligations.

The best way to support your employee will depend on the type of work they do, their diagnosis and treatment, and whether or not they need or want to work throughout and beyond their treatment.

The information throughout this section provides information about your obligations as an employer and how to manage an employee’s breast cancer diagnosis within the workplace.

Useful information

For further information, the following resources are available:

• For information about breast cancer and treatments, visit the Understanding breast cancer section.
• For a simple explanation of breast cancer, download the plain English version of the About breast cancer booklet.
• Download BCNA's Tips for managers of people diagnosed with breast cancer fact sheet for strategies to support your employee.
• Download BCNA's Work rights and responsibilities – for employers to familiarise yourself with the rights and responsibilities of an employer of a person with a serious illness.
• Call BCNA’s Helpline on 1800 500 258 for information, support and referral.
• As an employer you can access advice, and financial and practical assistance to help support you at JobAccess. Call 1800 464 800 or visit www.jobaccess.gov.au.