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The government is now operating in accordance with the Guidance on Caretaker Conventions, pending the outcome of the 2025 federal election.

Screening

Finding cancer at an early stage increases the chances of successful treatment and improved survival.

There are two ways you can act to find cancer early:

  1. It's important to get to know your body and what is normal for you. If you notice anything unusual for you, see your doctor.
  2. The Australian Government operates the following screening programs for eligible Australians: 

The National Cervical Screening Program

The program promotes routine screening with Cervical Screening Test every five years for women between the ages of 25 and 74 years.

For information about the Cervical Screening Test, go to the National Cervical Screening Program. 

BreastScreen Australia

BreastScreen Australia targets women aged 50-74, although women aged 40-49 and 75 years and older are able to attend for screening.

For more information visit BreastScreen Australia.

National Bowel Cancer Screening Program

The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP) invites eligible people starting at age 50 and continuing to age 74 (without symptoms) to screen for bowel cancer using a free, simple test at home.

For more information regarding screening for bowel cancer:

Last updated 22 January 2025
Cancer Australia

Cancer Australia was established by the Australian Government in 2006 to benefit all Australians affected by cancer, and their families and carers. Cancer Australia aims to reduce the impact of cancer, address disparities and improve outcomes for people affected by cancer by leading and coordinating national, evidence-based interventions across the continuum of care.

If you would like an interpreter to help you understand any information on this website, please call TIS National on 131 450 and ask them to call Cancer Australia on 02 9357 9400. Our business hours are 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

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