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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.

Breast cancer diagnosis

The triple test, consisting of patient history, clinical examination, diagnostic imaging, and non-excisional biopsy, is a recommended approach for investigating new breast symptoms and detecting breast cancer with over 99.6% accuracy.

The triple test refers to three diagnostic components used to investigate new breast symptoms that could be due to breast cancer: (i) patient history and clinical examination; (ii) diagnostic imaging; (iii) non-excisional biopsy and surgical referral.

Clinical resources

This section outlines useful resources on the triple test, breast imaging and pathology reporting.

The triple test

  • Investigation of a new breast symptom - a guide for general practitioners 
    Publication date: October 2021
    ​This guide for GPs is designed to maximise the effectiveness of the investigation of symptoms that could be breast cancer. The guide indicates steps to be taken in investigating symptoms that could be breast cancer, and provides information about the triple test approach to diagnosis. The triple test is the recommended approach to investigating new breast symptoms. The triple test involves patient history and clinical breast examination; mammography and/or ultrasound imaging; and the use of non-excisional biopsy. When performed appropriately, the triple test will detect over 99.6% of cancers.
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.

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