Stomal Therapy Week
22-28 June 2026
Every Journey. Together.
Celebrating individuality and shared support, because every journey is unique.
The Australian Association of Stomal Therapy Nurses and the New Zealand Nurses Organisation College of Stomal Therapy Nursing proudly present Stomal Therapy Week 2026, being celebrated during the week of 22-28 June 2026.
Stomal Therapy Week 2026 recognises the shared journey between people living with a stoma and the network of stomal therapy nurses and supporters who stand alongside them, under this year’s theme Every Journey. Together.
Living with a stoma is a unique experience for every person. From diagnosis and surgery to recovery, confidence, and everyday life, no two journeys are the same. People living with a stoma bring lived experience, resilience, and insight that shape their care and outcomes. What remains constant is the importance of specialised, ongoing support.
Stomal therapy nurses play a vital role within this network, partnering with people living with a stoma to provide expert clinical care, education, advocacy, and reassurance at every stage of the journey. Alongside them are health professionals, industry partners, ostomy associations, peer support groups, families, and carers — together forming a connected community of care that supports confidence, independence, and quality of life.
Every Journey. Together. reflects this collective commitment — recognising that living well is made possible through shared expertise, lived experience, and community support.
Stomal Therapy Week 2026 is an opportunity to raise awareness about living with a stoma, highlight the value of specialist stomal therapy nurses, and acknowledge the broader network of professionals, organisations, families, and supporters who contribute to helping people live well — at every stage of life.
2026 'Every Journey. Together' Campaign Material to Download
Key Messages to download
Happy Stomal Therapy Week to all who make a difference.
Reflecting on the importance of education and empathy.
Wishing everyone a meaningful Stomal Therapy Week
Celebrate Stomal Therapy Nurses !
Every journey is unique, but no one walks it alone.
This media release can be shared on social media platforms to promote Stomal Therapy Week in your local areas.
Shop 'Every Journey Together' Merchandise
Suggested activities to help celebrate Stomal Therapy Week include:
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- A display of information related to bowel and stomas. Perhaps a stall or table inside the foyer of your hospital or local shopping centre
- Wearing of promotional t-shirts or caps by Stomal Therapy Nurses, Surgeons and Colorectal Ward Staff
- Collaborate with local groups for joint activities to be held through the week eg Cancer Council, Stoma Support Groups, Crohn’s and Colitis Association – how can they help?
- Contact the local radio station – ‘Interview with an STN’
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Stomal Therapy Week (NSTW) is designed to both acknowledge and provide support to people living with a stoma and recognise those health professionals and support agencies involved in their care. Stomal Therapy Nurses (STN’s) are encouraged to recognise, publicise and celebrate this important event by participating in a variety of activities to promote healthier living for people with stomas and raise awareness of the role of the STN.
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The History of National Stomal Therapy Week.
In 1986 at the World Council of Enterostomal Therapists Congress in Perth, Western Australia, Mr Neal Blewett (Federal Minister for Health) announced approval for a week in June to be designated National Stomal Therapy Week. It was registered with the Health Department and was held annually beginning after the second Sunday in June. Carville, K. (2003). The evolution and experience of stomal therapy nurses in Australia 1959-2000. Edith Cowan University. Retrieved from https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/1488 Page 134
To ensure a full week was able to be dedicated to NSTW awareness events, the Tasmanian Branch proposed that the dates of the NSTW be changed to avoid the Queen’s Birthday public holiday. The new dates of NSTW were agreed to be ‘starting on the Monday of the last full week of June’. ~ 2022 AASTN Annual General Meeting