The AASTN is proud to present Stomal Therapy Week 2025 which will be held during the week of 23-29 June 2025 ! We are delighted to announce that we are collaborating with New Zealand stomal therapy nurses to spread the same message across both countries. This year we will be celebrating the connection between ostomates and those who support them. These supporters include families, carers, stoma support groups, ostomy associations, industry, stomal therapy nurses and other members of the health care team. Stomal Therapy Week is a time to recognise and support individuals living with a stoma while celebrating the contribution of stomal therapy nurses and all ostomate supporters.

We have again teamed up with the amazing Australian graphic designer MJ Pureza (www.mjpix.com), who has created an image that brilliantly conveys the positive energy we wish to associate with Stomal Therapy Week.

We invite everyone to share the ‘Ostomateship’ message. A range of materials showcasing the message is available for downloading, including key messages, screensaver, poster and email footers (one with the STW dates and one without, so you can use it throughout the year). You be able to purchase Ostomateship merchandise from Red Bubble. These mugs, T-shirts, tote bags and note pads feature the Ostomateship graphic and can be used in your local campaigns and as prizes or giveaways. The merchandise is available from Redbubble: Red Bubble AASTN Merch

Remember to ‘send us your selfies’ via [email protected] of your local campaigns.

2025 'Ostomateship!' Campaign Material to Download

1. Email footer (with dates)

2. Email footer (no dates)

3. A4 Poster

4. Screensaver

Key Messages to download

Living with a stoma is not just about adapting, it’s about thriving.

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 !

This media release can be shared on social media platforms to promote Stomal Therapy Week in your local areas.

Key Messages for Stomal Therapy Week 2025:

We honour the journey of people with stomas and recognise those who support them with compassion and expertise. Celebrating Stomal Therapy Week with gratitude for the incredible resilience and strength of people with stomas worldwide.
Stomal Therapy Week 2025 is an opportunity to highlight the crucial role of those who support people with stomas. Let’s recognise the contribution made by families, carers, ostomy associations, stoma support groups, industry, stomal therapy nurses and other members of the health care team for empowering ostomates with knowledge, support and care. Happy Stomal Therapy Week to all who make a difference.
From awareness to advocacy, Stomal Therapy Week reminds us of the importance of inclusive healthcare and support for all. Reflecting on the importance of education and empathy.
Celebrating Ostomateship ! Embracing the mutual bonds of respect, equality and dependability between ostomates and those that support them. Wishing everyone a meaningful Stomal Therapy Week.
Stomal therapy nurses improve quality of life by providing expert clinical advice, education, support, problem solving and coordination of care for stoma, fistula, continence and wound management. Join us this Stomal Therapy Week as we celebrate the incredible impact of stomal therapy nurses.

For Ostomates:
You are more than your stoma – your strength, resilience, and journey inspire us all. Living with a stoma is not just about adapting; it’s about thriving. You are not alone – we are here to support you every step of the way.

For Stomal Therapy Nurses:
Your expertise, compassion and dedication transform lives every day. Thank you for empowering ostomates with knowledge, confidence and dignity. Your work makes a difference beyond measure.

For Supporters:

Expressing gratitude to the supporters of ostomates and acknowledging your invaluable role in providing emotional support, practical assistance, and encouragement. Your contributions have not gone unnoticed and are deeply appreciated.

Suggested activities to help celebrate National Stomal Therapy Week include:

- - - 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’

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