- Cook Labor Government encourages women to prioritise breast screening this October
- BreastScreen WA launches State-wide campaign highlighting the importance of early detection
- One in seven Australian women are diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime
The Cook Labor Government is encouraging Western Australian women to prioritise potentially life-saving breast screening this October as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
To coincide with the month, BreastScreen WA has launched a State-wide campaign encouraging women to take "what could be the most important photo of their life".
Running across radio and social media throughout October, the campaign highlights the importance of regular mammograms in detecting breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat.
The campaign features a wall of treasured family photographs , with a mammogram image at its centre and the important message: "Don't miss the most important photo of all".
Every day, 56 Australians are diagnosed with breast cancer, with those diagnosed earlier having a greater chance of beating the disease.
Regular screening mammograms are the best way to detect breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat. Mammograms can detect cancer the size of a grain of rice, before any lump can be felt.
The risk of breast cancer increases with age, and women aged 50 to 74 are encouraged to have a free screening mammogram every two years through BreastScreen WA.
The Cook Labor Government invested $8 million in additional funding to BreastScreen WA through the 2026-27 State Budget, strengthening access to screening and supporting women's health across Western Australia.
This includes a $4.4 million boost earlier this year to help BreastScreen WA screen an additional 5,000 women annually.
In September 2026, a new $2.44 million purpose-built BreastScreen WA clinic opened in Bunbury, improving access to screening for women in the South West.
Appointments can be booked online through BreastScreen WA , alternatively consumers can call 13 20 50 to speak to a BreastScreen WA staff member.
As stated by Preventative Health Minister Meredith Hammat:
"The Cook Labor Government is investing in BreastScreen WA so more women across Western Australia can access the healthcare they need, when they need it.
"Early detection can save lives. A mammogram can find breast cancer before you can feel a lump, giving women the best possible chance of successful treatment.
"This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I encourage Western Australian women to be breast aware by regularly checking for any changes in their breasts and booking their routine mammogram with BreastScreen WA."
As stated by Minister for Women Simone McGurk:
"Women often put the needs of their families ahead of their own health, and this campaign is an important reminder to make time for breast screening.
"Partners, family members and friends can all help, whether that means encouraging someone to book, helping them get to an appointment or making it easier for them to take time out for their health.
"The Cook Labor Government is committed to supporting women's health and wellbeing, and we want every eligible woman to access this free, potentially life-saving service."
