The Jreissati Pancreatic Centre invites people affected by pancreatic cancer, whether as a patient, family member or caregiver, to join our Community Advisory Panel.

This group brings together people with lived experience to help shape the Centre’s work in care, education, research and advocacy. No formal experience is required. We support members to contribute in ways that suit them.

We welcome people from all backgrounds, including culturally diverse communities, regional and rural areas, and people living with disability.

What is a consumer?

In healthcare, a consumer is anyone with experience of a health service, including patients, carers and family members. At the Centre, consumer input helps ensure our work is relevant, inclusive and patient-centred.

What does the role involve?

Panel members help shape the Centre’s work in clinical care, education, advocacy and research. This includes:

  • Attending quarterly meetings (held online, 1.5 hours each)
  • Preparing for and actively participating in panel discussions
  • Providing advice on:
    • Care and support priorities
    • Research ideas and gaps
    • Patient-facing materials and communication
  • Identifying urgent or unmet needs from a consumer perspective.

Panel membership is for a two-year term, with the option to reapply. Additional opportunities may be available between meetings.

Why does consumer input matter?

When people with lived experience of pancreatic cancer are involved in shaping services, we can deliver more person-centred care.

Consumer input helps us:

  • Understand what matters most to patients, families and carers
  • Improve education, advocacy and communication
  • Identify and address gaps in care
  • Ensure services remain inclusive, relevant and responsive.

Do I need to have received care at the Jreissati Pancreatic Centre to be involved?

No, you do not need to have received care at the Centre to be involved in the Community Advisory Panel. We welcome participation from anyone affected by pancreatic cancer, whether you are a patient, carer or family member, regardless of where care was received.

Who can be part of the panel?

You can express interest if you:

  • Have experience with pancreatic cancer (as a patient, carer or family member)
  • Are interested in improving care and support for others
  • Are comfortable sharing your views and listening to others.

Most meetings and activities are held online, so you do not need to be based in Melbourne.

Interested?

To take part in this opportunity, please register your interest by contacting us below. Panel members will also be supported to be onboarded as Epworth Consumer Advisors.