Welcome to PinkRibbon Australia
You’re not alone. This page shares key facts about common female cancers in Australia, survival stats, health initiatives, and trusted support organisations. Our mission is to ensure every woman has access to awareness, early detection, and compassionate care.
Cancer statistics
& survival rates
Breast Cancer
Most common female cancer in Australia.
Approx. 20,000 diagnoses per year.
92% five-year survival.
Cervical Cancer
Declining incidence due to vaccination and screening.
74% five-year survival.
Ovarian Cancer
~1,050 deaths estimated in 2023.
47.1% five-year survival.
Endometrial (Uterine) Cancer
Rising incidence.
83% five-year survival.
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Learn more
Recent research
& Initiatives
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Recent Research
Breast Cancer: Improvements in early detection and treatment have boosted survival rates to 92%.
Cervical Cancer: Australia is on track to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health issue by 2035 through widespread HPV vaccination and regular screening.
Ovarian Cancer: Research is focused on improving early detection and treatment options.
Endometrial (Uterine) Cancer: Work is underway to better understand aggressive subtypes and develop targeted therapies.Learn more
Support organizations
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Support Organisations
Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA): Support, information, and advocacy for those affected by breast cancer. bcna.org.au
National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF): Funds breast cancer research. nbcf.org.au
McGrath Foundation: Provides McGrath Breast Care Nurses. mcgrathfoundation.com.au
Cancer Council Australia: General cancer information, prevention, and support. cancer.org.au
Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation (ACCF): Cervical cancer prevention and education. accf.org.au
Ovarian Cancer Australia (OCA): Support and advocacy for those with ovarian cancer. ovariancancer.net.au
Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF): Research funding for ovarian cancer. ocrf.com.au
Australian Gynaecological Cancer Foundation (AGCF): Research and awareness for gynaecological cancers. anzgog.org.au/agcf
Accessing cancer screening and treatment
Where to get screened
These services are part of the national screening program “Prolamvano” (meaning “I Prevent”)
Learn more
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**Where to Get Screened**
Australia offers free national screening programs:
Breast Cancer: Women aged 50–74 receive invitations for free mammograms every two years. Women aged 40–49 and over 74 can also access free screening on request.
Cervical Cancer: Cervical Screening Test every five years for those aged 25–74 via their healthcare provider.
Bowel Cancer: Eligible Australians aged 45–74 receive free at-home test kits every two years.**Appointment Required?
Yes. Eligible people get invitation letters with instructions on how to schedule.****What to Bring:**
Medicare card
Identification (e.g., driver’s license)
Invitation letter (if received)Learn more
Hotline numbers
1800 627 701
Typically staffed Monday–Friday during business hours (confirm local hours when calling).
Where to get treatment
Financial support
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Medicare covers most cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.
For those in financial hardship:
Apply for hospital-based social work and hardship assistance programs.
Private insurers may offer additional support.
Hardship exemptions cap annual out-of-pocket costs relative to income.
Discuss options with treating hospitals or social workers to access local/state support schemes.
Need someone to talk to, anytime?
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