Australia has one of the highest skin cancer rates – 2 in 3 Australians will be diagnosed by age 70, and nearly 2,000 lives are lost each year. In 2023 alone, over 18,200 people were diagnosed with melanoma, the country’s third most common cancer.
But the good news? Most skin cancers are preventable with proper sun protection.
Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide
- Slip on protective clothing
- Slop on SPF 30+ sunscreen (reapply every two hours)
- Slap on a broad-brimmed hat
- Seek shade during peak UV hours (10 AM – 4 PM)
- Slide on wraparound sunglasses
How to check for skin cancer
Look for:
- New or changing moles
- Sores that don’t heal
- Itchy, scaly, or bleeding spots
- Dark streaks under nails
- Spots that look different from others on your body
Get Your Skin Checked
- Have a professional skin check every 1-2 years, or more often if you’re at higher risk.
- Visit your GP, dermatologist, or a dedicated skin cancer clinic for a full-body check. Many clinics offer bulk-billed or affordable skin checks, so book yours today!
Why It Matters
Sunburn causes long-term damage and increases melanoma risk. UV rays are harmful even on cloudy days, so when the UV index hits 3 or higher, protect your skin.
Make sun safety a habit—your skin will thank you!
