On 17 November, Australia took another step in reaffirming its commitment to be among the first countries to eliminate cervical cancer. Joining the global day of action, the Australian Government unveiled the National Strategy for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer in Australia matched with an investment of A$ 48.2 million over 4 years to support implementation.
The Strategy sets a goal of eliminating cervical cancer in Australia by 2035 with a focus on improving access to screening, follow-up services, and data to guide targeted vaccination efforts.
As a cosponsor of WHO’s Global strategy to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer as a public health problem, Australia recognizes that achieving its vision means the elimination of cervical cancer in all countries. Toward this end, the Government announced a new investment in the Elimination Partnership in the Indo–Pacific for Cervical Cancer (EPICC). As part of the country’s Partnerships for a Healthy Region Initiative, the investment aims to support HPV vaccination programmes, expand screening and treatment services, and build health workforce capacity across the Region.
Read the joint media release from Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care here
Learn more about the Elimination Partnership in the Indo–Pacific for Cervical Cancer (EPICC) here
Access the National Strategy for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer in Australia here