The Australian Government has today opened for public consultation a draft policy framework that will strengthen genomics-informed cancer care for all Australians.
The draft National Framework for Genomics in Cancer Control has been developed to promote a common understanding of genomics, drive its safe and effective application in practice, foster collaboration and provide future direction for its integration into the cancer care system.
The role of genomics in cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment is expanding rapidly and has broad implications for patient care, workforce, research and data, policy and service delivery.
Genomics has enormous potential to transform cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment. Genomic testing provides information on mutations in genes that drive various cancer behaviours and enables personalised treatments.
The Framework will guide health professionals, researchers, health services and policy makers, as they incorporate the rapidly advancing field of genomics into patient care in a way that is consistent, culturally safe, high-quality, evidence-based and equitable for all Australians.
Cancer Australia prioritised extensive consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people during the development of the draft Framework. Culturally safe genomics-guided cancer care offers an opportunity to reduce disparities experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people affected by cancer.
The Australian Government, through Cancer Australia, is inviting stakeholders across the cancer sector to share their perspectives to guide the future of genomics in cancer care in Australia.
The Framework is a priority of the Australian Cancer Plan, the once in a generation reform that aims to deliver world class cancer outcomes and experience for all Australians affected by cancer, irrespective of their background or location.
The draft National Framework for Genomics in Cancer Control is open for consultation through an online survey on the Cancer Australia Engagement Hub from 14 November 2024 to 24 December 2024.
Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:
"The Australian Government is leading the way in turning the game-changing potential of genomics into improved prevention, risk-reduction, early detection, treatment and outcomes of cancer.
"The National Framework for Genomics in Cancer Control marks a significant milestone on the path towards making that potential a reality. We are now inviting the cancer care community to
