From July 2025, a new National Lung Cancer Screening Program will launch in Australia, giving eligible people free access to low-dose CT scans that can detect lung cancer early before any symptoms appear. This simple scan can spot signs of cancer when it's most treatable, and international studies show it can catch up to 70% of lung cancers in their early stages.
Who's Eligible?
You may be eligible if you:
- Are aged 50 to 70
- Currently smoke or quit within the last 10 years
- Have a history of heavy smoking (at least 30 pack-years)
- Don't have symptoms like an unexplained cough, coughing blood, or shortness of breath
Your doctor will help calculate your "pack-years" (based on how much and how long you've smoked) and refer you for a free scan covered by Medicare if you're eligible.
What to Do Next
- Talk to your doctor – They'll assess your eligibility and provide a referral if screening is right for you.
- Encourage loved ones who might qualify to speak with their GP—especially older friends and family who smoke or used to smoke.
- If eligible, you'll be enrolled in the National Cancer Screening Register (with your consent), which helps track your results and send you reminders every two years.
Even if you feel fine, regular screening every two years is the best way to catch lung cancer early. If you're not eligible now, check in regularly with your GP—you may qualify later. And if you develop any new symptoms, don't wait—see your doctor straight away.
For more information about the program, talk to your GP or visit the Department of Health website.
Get help quitting
Quitline counsellors are available to answer any questions you may have about quitting on 13 7848 (13 QUIT). They can also help you think of ways to approach a conversation with your child or loved one.
The Aboriginal Quitline is also available on 13 7848. Run by Aboriginal Advisors, the Aboriginal Quitline is a telephone-based confidential advice and support service.
For people who are attempting to quit tobacco, using nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) products such as lozenges, gums, nasal sprays and patches, are safer and are proven to help you quit. The NSW Cancer Institute iCanQuit website provides information on quitting methods, links to support groups and top tips to help you quit.
For free and confidential advice 24/7 call the Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS) on 1800 250 015. Counsellors are available to provide information, referrals, crisis counselling and support. Or start a Web Chat with an ADIS counsellor online Monday to Friday, 8.30am – 5pm.
