Lung Foundation Australia launches Silicosis Support Services

Article submitted by: Lung Foundation Australia

Lung Foundation Australia, the leading peak body in Australia for lung disease and lung cancer, has recently launched three new services — a Silicosis Support Nurse, Silicosis Social Worker and Peer Support Groups for people living with silicosis, their family and carers.

Silicosis Support Nurse

Silicosis Social Worker

A diagnosis of silicosis can trigger a range of emotions, such as fear, sadness, anxiety, anger and frustration. Lung Foundation Australia’s Silicosis Social Worker provides free telephone-based support for people living with silicosis, and their family and carers. Through the service, the social worker can help the person impacted to navigate the practical and emotional impacts of living with silicosis.

Silicosis Support Groups

Lung Foundation Australia’s online support network enables connection with others from across the country who have a similar experience with lung disease. The groups connect virtually through a free online platform, allowing members to meet others from the comfort of their own home. We have groups available for those living with silicosis, as well as a separate group for carers and family members.

The silicosis groups are facilitated by Lung Foundation Australia’s Social Worker. Through these groups, members join a friendly, safe, and supportive environment to discuss and share experiences, resources, thoughts and feelings through group chats, one-on-one messaging or group video calls.

How to refer into the support services

• Health Professionals: To refer clients into Lung Foundation Australia’s Silicosis Support Services, health professionals can complete an Expression of Interest form for our nurse service and our social worker service.


• Clients: Clients can self-refer into Lung Foundation Australia’s Silicosis Support Services by contacting the Information and Support Centre on free call 1800 654 301 (option 3). Clients can also complete the Expression of Interest form for the silicosis nurse service for the social worker service and for the relevant peer support group (patient or carer / family member).