Australia launches a life-saving lung cancer screening program aimed at early detection in smokers with a 30 pack-year history. Find out if you’re eligible for a free CT scan. thousands of lives each year?
A Deadly Legacy of Smoking in Australia
For decades, Australia has waged war on smoking—and yet, lung cancer remains the nation’s deadliest cancer. A staggering number of cases are only diagnosed once the disease has already advanced, leaving limited options for successful treatment. But 2025 marks a turning point in this grim reality.
Click Play To Listen Below
The National Lung Cancer Screening Program Begins
In July 2025, the Australian Government launched a bold new initiative: The National Lung Cancer Screening Program, offering eligible individuals a free low-dose CT scan to detect lung cancer before symptoms appear.
It’s a potential game-changer—especially when you consider that early-stage lung cancer can be successfully treated, while later stages often result in terminal outcomes.
Who’s Eligible?
The program targets people who are at the highest risk:
- Aged 50 to 70 years
- Current smokers or those who quit within the last 10 years
- Must meet the 30 pack-year threshold (i.e. one pack per day for 30 years)
If this sounds like you—or someone you know—a simple GP visit could lead to a free scan and potentially lifesaving early detection.
Backed by 40 Years of Evidence
The program is underpinned by decades of research. Two major international studies—NLST (USA) and NELSON (Europe)—proved that regular CT scans significantly reduce lung cancer deaths. Australia has now joined global leaders by applying this evidence to public health policy.
Associate Professor Nicole Rankin, who led the development of the program guidelines, emphasises this isn’t a guess—it’s science-driven.
Free Scans, Real Results
Thanks to new Medicare item numbers, the CT scans are fully funded. There may be a small consultation fee depending on your GP, but the scans themselves are free at public and private radiology providers.
Even remote Australians won’t miss out: mobile scanning units will travel to rural and regional towns across the country—ensuring no one is left behind.
Why It Matters
Despite smoking rates falling, tobacco still causes enormous harm—and costs. The Australian government earns $7 billion annually in tobacco tax, while the black market is worth $6 billion. Yet the toll on public health is far worse: lives lost, families devastated, and healthcare systems burdened.
This screening program is one step toward righting that wrong.
What to Do Next
Speak to your GP or nurse practitioner. If you’re eligible, they can refer you for your free low-dose CT scan. Don’t wait for symptoms—early detection saves lives.
