The Australian Government has today opened for public consultation a draft policy framework that will strengthen genomics-informed cancer care for all Australians.
The draft National Framework for Genomics in Cancer Control has been developed to promote a common understanding of genomics, drive its safe and effective application in practice, foster collaboration and provide future direction for its integration into the cancer care system.
The role of genomics in cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment is expanding rapidly and has broad implications for patient care, workforce, research and data, policy and service delivery.
Genomics has enormous potential to transform cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment. Genomic testing provides information on mutations in genes that drive various cancer behaviours and enables personalised treatments.
The Framework will guide health professionals, researchers, health services and policy makers, as they incorporate the rapidly advancing field of genomics into patient care in a way that is consistent, culturally safe, high-quality, evidence-based and equitable for all Australians.
Cancer Australia prioritised extensive consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people during the development of the draft Framework. Culturally safe genomics-guided cancer care offers an opportunity to reduce disparities experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people affected by cancer.
The Australian Government, through Cancer Australia, is inviting stakeholders across the cancer sector to share their perspectives to guide the future of genomics in cancer care in Australia.
The Framework is a priority of the Australian Cancer Plan, the once in a generation reform that aims to deliver world class cancer outcomes and experience for all Australians affected by cancer, irrespective of their background or location.
The draft National Framework for Genomics in Cancer Control is open for consultation through an online survey on the Cancer Australia Engagement Hub from 14 November 2024 to 24 December 2024.
Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:
“The Australian Government is leading the way in turning the game-changing potential of genomics into improved prevention, risk-reduction, early detection, treatment and outcomes of cancer.
“The National Framework for Genomics in Cancer Control marks a significant milestone on the path towards making that potential a reality. We are now inviting the cancer care community to join us on this path.”
Quotes attributable to Professor Dorothy Keefe, CEO, Cancer Australia:
“The draft National Framework for Genomics in Cancer Control will help promote a common understanding of genomics, drive its safe and effective application in practice, foster collaboration, and provide future direction for its integration and use within the cancer care system.
"Cancer Australia's consultation with priority population stakeholders was a critical step in the development of the Framework. We held in-person workshops across Australia with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members, health care providers, cancer patients, and community-controlled Aboriginal health service representatives.
“The input of the cancer control community is an essential part of building a genomics framework for the future. I encourage everyone with an interest in the role of genomics in cancer care to take part in the consultation process.”
Quote attributable to Adjunct Professor Jacinta Elston, Cancer Australia’s Advisor on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cancer Control:
“The opportunities presented by medical advancements in genomics have the potential to transform cancer outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people affected by cancer.”
“During the Framework’s development, important discussions have highlighted the need for genomics-based care to be culturally safe and accessible for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and for the cancer services community to continue to strengthen its focus on closing the gap in outcomes, because cancer is now our leading cause of death."
Media Contact:
Jack Faulkner-Walmsley/Susie Dobson Media.officer@canceraustralia.gov.au M: 0438 209 833