The Albanese Government is investing in specialised education and training for frontline healthcare workers to support the early identification, management and treatment of chronic liver disease and primary liver cancer.
The government is providing $425,000 to the Liver Foundation to deliver targeted training for nurses and General Practitioners on managing liver disease to help improve patient outcomes.
This includes funding to develop a range of educational resources and accredited training courses for healthcare workers, particularly those in rural and remote areas, where access to specialist services can be limited.
From March to June 2026, the Liver Foundation will deliver a national series of free, face to face ‘Frontline Liver Care – Empowering Healthcare Workers’ courses across eight regional locations in Australia with a high incidence of liver disease, including:
- Toowoomba, Queensland
- Sale, Victoria
- Alice Springs, Northern Territory
- Mount Gambier, South Australia
- Kalgoorlie and Port Hedland, Western Australia
- Launceston, Tasmania
- Orange, NSW
The courses and other resources were developed in close consultation with key stakeholders, including the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and the Australian College of Nursing in line with evidence-based, best-practice guidelines.
The funding has also strengthened support available for people with chronic liver disease and liver cancer through the Liver Foundation’s nurse-led support line, which provides information and advice to individuals and their families.
For more information, visit the Liver Foundation website.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister White:
“Liver disease affects one in three Australians and here in Northern Tasmania we’re seeing just how important early support and care can be.
“This funding supports the health workers who are on the frontline of care for people with chronic liver disease and primary liver cancer.
“We know that in rural and regional communities, your local doctor and nurse are often your first point of care, this funding is about backing them with the skills and support they need.
“Bringing this training to Launceston means healthcare workers don’t have to travel far to access training and patients can get the care and support they need closer to home.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Bass, Jess Teesdale:
“This funding is a major boost for frontline workers who play a vital role in detecting and treating chronic liver disease.
“Access to high‑quality training, especially in regional communities - means better care and better outcomes for patients.
“Strengthening the Liver Foundation’s support services ensures individuals and families have trusted help when they need it most.”