The Australian Government is calling for input on a draft Australian Cancer Plan (ACP) which is being designed in a bid to provide lasting change and improve outcomes for people affected by cancer.
Australia leads the world in cancer outcomes however, it is still the leading cause of death in this country. This year alone, 50,000 people will lose their lives to cancer.
The draft ACP presents the opportunity for all Australians to comment on a ground-breaking national strategy that sets out strategic objectives, ambitions, goals and priority actions for cancer control.
Minister for Health & Aged Care, Mark Butler says to make a difference, Australia needs coordinated system-wide engagement.
“Cancer is the leading cause of death in Australia and affects the lives of many Australians, as well as their families, communities, and our health system. We are developing the Australian Cancer Plan to improve outcomes for all Australians affected by cancer,” said Minister Butler.
“This Government is committed to a national approach to support all people affected by cancer to reduce the impact of cancer and contribute to a healthier Australia.
“Cancer incidence and survival outcomes are not evenly spread across the population. A key component of the plan is achieving equity in cancer outcomes, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
“Every Australian affected by cancer should have access to the best treatment and supportive care,” he said.
Developed by Cancer Australia, the ACP is a historical step forward in cancer control. The 10-year plan for national action sets an agenda to accelerate world-class cancer outcomes and reduce the impact of cancer, said Cancer Australia CEO, Professor Dorothy Keefe.
“To achieve world-class cancer outcomes for all Australians, we need national action to address issues that contribute to variation in cancer outcomes and experience,” said Professor Keefe.
“It is our aim that the Australian Cancer Plan resonates with every person affected by cancer in Australia, and everyone engaged in the cancer sector.”
Minister Butler said the draft ACP had been developed through extensive and rigorous stakeholder engagement and consultation. It reflects submissions, advice and feedback from organisations and individuals across Australia throughout the cancer control sector, he said.
Cancer Australia invites you to share your feedback via the ACP Engagement Hub. Public consultation for the ACP will close on 16 December, 2022.
For more information about the Australian Cancer Plan visit Cancer Australia.
