The AASTN is proud to present Stomal Therapy Week 2026, taking place from 22–28 June 2026. This special week is dedicated to honouring and supporting people living with a stoma, while celebrating the vital contributions of stomal therapy nurses and the many supporters who stand beside them.

We are delighted to once again collaborate with our New Zealand stomal therapy colleagues to share a unified message across both countries, strengthening our trans‑Tasman partnership and amplifying awareness within our communities.

The 2026 campaign message will be announced in March 2026, and we look forward to sharing it with you.

2025 'Ostomateship!' Campaign Material to Download

1. Email footer (with dates)

2. Email footer (no dates)

3. A4 Poster

4. Screensaver

5. Social media tile

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