Overview
The use of genomics in cancer care is changing the way we prevent, screen, diagnose, and treat cancer. Genomic medicine and precision oncology are quickly advancing and have the potential to improve outcomes for Australians with cancer.
The National Framework for Genomics in Cancer Control (the Framework) was created as part of the Australian Cancer Plan’s (the Plan’s) Strategic Objective to deliver Maximised Cancer Prevention & Early Detection. It shares the vision of achieving world class cancer outcomes and experiences for all Australians and the Plan’s guiding principles.
The Framework aims to support people affected by cancer to benefit from cancer genetic testing and genomics-informed treatments. It will also support health professionals and services to consistently integrate genomics into high-quality, safe, and culturally appropriate care.
The Framework will guide policy for equitable access to personalised cancer care for all Australians affected by cancer.
Framework Structure
The Framework is made up of four strategic objectives which span the cancer care continuum.
- Strategic Objective 1: Prevention and early detection
- Strategic Objective 2: Diagnosis, treatment and clinical trials
- Strategic Objective 3: Supportive care
- Strategic Objective 4: Awareness and education
Three foundational objectives underpin the strategic objectives. These have a genomics-specific lens on wider health system structures and function.
- Foundational Objective 1: Research and data
- Foundational Objective 2: Workforce and models of care
- Foundational Objective 3: Funding, quality and safety
Consultation
We asked
For input and advice from stakeholders, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and other priority population groups, with oversight from a multidisciplinary Expert Advisory Group and Indigenous Governance Group, and public submissions to inform the Framework.
You said
Key themes emerged during consultations with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders, including self-determination, culture, capacity building, and access. Other stakeholders also supported equity of access to genomic testing and genomic-informed cancer care, workforce training, and raising community awareness about the role of genomics in improving outcomes for people affected by cancer. Stakeholders emphasised the importance of embedding these themes into the Framework’s objectives, goals, and actions.
We did
The feedback was integral to shaping the Framework. Themes were embedded across Framework goals and actions to ensure alignment with stakeholder priorities. Cancer Australia would like to thank all stakeholders for their input.
Read our recent publications:
Debortoli, E., McGahan, E., Yanes, T., Berkman, J., Fuentes-Bolanos, N., Milch, V., Steinberg, J. and McInerney-Leo, A. (2024) Utility of genomic testing in children, adolescents, and young adults with cancer, JNCI: Journal of the National Cancer Institute. https://doi.org/10.1093/jnci/djae233
Berkman, J., DeBortoli, E., Steinberg, J., Milch, V., Yanes, T. and McInerney-Leo, A. (2024), Mainstreaming Cancer Genomic Testing: A Scoping Review of the Acceptability, Efficacy, and Impact. Clinical Genetics. https://doi.org/10.1111/cge.14660
Smit, A.K., Gokoolparsadh, A., McWhirter, R., Newett, L., Milch, V, Hermes, A., McInerney-Leo, A., and Newson, A.J. (2024) Ethical, legal and social issues related to genetics and genomics in cancer: a scoping review and narrative synthesis. Genetics in Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gim.2024.101270
