Strengthening cancer research across regional NSW

The Regional Cancer Research Network NSW (RCRN) is a statewide network building cancer research capacity across regional, rural and remote New South Wales.

Funded through the Cancer Institute NSW Translational Capacity Building Grant scheme, RCRN connects researchers, clinicians, health services, universities and consumers to strengthen opportunities for regional communities to participate in and benefit from cancer research, clinical trials and research-informed care.

The Network brings together Cancer Voices NSW, the University of Newcastle, the University of Wollongong and six Local Health Districts across the Central Coast, Hunter New England, Mid North Coast, Northern NSW, Illawarra Shoalhaven and Western NSW.

Building regional cancer research capacity

Since 2023, RCRN has supported regional cancer researchers and clinicians through research funding, Clinician Research Fellowships, PhD scholarships, education and training, collaboration, mentoring and specialised research support. The Network has supported eight Clinician Research Fellowships, 22 regional cancer research projects, two full-time PhD scholarships and travel awards for regional researchers.

The impact extends beyond research funding. Eight RCRN-supported projects have progressed into clinical implementation or clinical trials, demonstrating the Network’s commitment to translating cancer research into improved healthcare and better outcomes for people living in regional NSW.

Connecting researchers, clinicians and communities

RCRN is creating a connected regional cancer research ecosystem that enables researchers and health professionals to develop and lead research addressing the priorities of their local communities. Through collaboration, targeted investment and practical research support, the Network is helping address barriers to cancer research in regional NSW, including geographic isolation, limited research infrastructure and competing clinical demands.

By connecting regional health services with universities, researchers and consumers, RCRN is strengthening research capability, creating new opportunities for collaboration and accelerating the translation of evidence into cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, survivorship and clinical care.

Better cancer outcomes for regional NSW

RCRN’s vision is that where a person lives should not determine their cancer outcomes. By building sustainable cancer research capacity across regional NSW, the Network is helping ensure that people living outside major metropolitan centres can access opportunities to participate in research and benefit from advances in cancer treatment and care.

Through a strong statewide network, locally led research and long-term investment in regional research capability, RCRN is working to reduce inequities in cancer outcomes and improve cancer care for communities across regional, rural and remote NSW.

Next steps

  • Join our growing community of researchers, clinicians, consumers and organisations committed to improving cancer outcomes for people living in regional NSW here.
  • Sign up to receive NSW Cancer Research Network news and updates here.
  • Visit the Regional Cancer Research Network NSW website.