Australian Oncology Social Work Inc. (OSWA) is a non-profit, incorporated national organisation dedicated to the enhancement of psychosocial services to people with cancer and their families. Created in 2004 by social workers interested in oncology, OSWA is an expanding force of psychosocial oncology professionals.
The specialist body was formed to assist social workers in their practice and currently has over 140 active members who strive for excellence in the psychosocial care of people with cancer and those affected by cancer, through networking, education, advocacy, research and resource development.
OSWA members practise in hospitals, outpatient clinics, home care and palliative care, patient advocacy organisations and other settings.
OSWA professionals link individuals diagnosed with cancer and their families with essential community, regional, state, national and international resources.
OSWA health workers do this as an integral part of the oncology team. They are as diverse as the clients and communities they serve. The six successful annual workshops/conferences are a testament to their professional achievements.
OSWA provides a forum for information, exchange, networking and ready access to resources relevant to their profession.
OSWA began as a special interest group of Clinical Oncological Society of Australia [COSA].
7th National Oncology Social Work Australia Conference
"Social Work Impacting Cancer Care Across the lifespan, across cultures, across the land"
PERTH CONVENTION CENTRE - WESTERN AUSTRALIA
News flash from WA: A highly successful OSWA conference was held in Perth, WA, for the first time on November 18th and 19th. Almost 100 delegates from across the country attended. Due to the generosity of our sponsors we were able to hold it in a centrally located quality venue at the Perth Convention Centre. There were many highlights with a variety of speakers and presentations and great opportunities for networking.
Feedback from both days was very positive. Some examples:
- "I liked all the presentations and felt they were all incredibly relevant and exciting and thought-provoking"
- "Brilliant conference! Very much enjoyed today, learning, reflecting, meeting and greeting with other social workers"
- "The standard was very high. The venue and organisation of the day was excellent. Great value!"
A more extensive report will be provided in the OSWA Oracle newsletter in early 2012.
All slide presentations will be placed on the website members section.
The keynote addresses have been recorded and will be available for podcast.
Vere Berger
OSWA Conference Convenor
OSWA is now on Facebook
OSWA will be regularly updating the page with news, events, research, resources, links and vacancies, so please log on and become a 'friend'.
OSWA wishes to thank Hamish Holewa for his kind assistance in making Facebook possible