Cancer Council Victoria has welcomed the Victorian Government’s investment in prevention, cancer care and support in this year’s State Budget.
The 2026-27 Victorian State Budget includes funding for hospitals, workforce and care infrastructure – measures that Cancer Council Victoria CEO Todd Harper AM has welcomed.
“These investments are important in ensuring a cancer system that is well equipped at every stage of the cancer journey, from prevention through to diagnosis, treatment and survivorship care.
Cancer Council Victoria has also welcomed the Government’s increased support for the SunSmart program, which continues to shape the way generations of Victorians view sun protection.
The renewed commitment will ensure SunSmart can deepen its engagement with schools, workplaces and health professionals, plus communities most at risk of skin cancer.
Head of SunSmart, Emma Glassenbury said the funding was critical to protect Victorians from one of state’s most expensive, common and highly preventable cancers.
“SunSmart is highly cost effective and one of Victoria’s greatest public health success stories. While we are seeing a drop in melanoma rates among Victorians who grew up with SunSmart, skin cancer continues to place a significant burden on our communities and healthcare system.”
Skin cancer prevention programs have been estimated to deliver a return on investment of $3.20 per dollar spent, Ms Glassenbury says.
“This welcome funding from the Victorian Government will enable SunSmart to continue to educate the community on the importance of sun protection and dangers of tanning. We know these skin cancer prevention efforts deliver an excellent return on investment and will save lives.”
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About Cancer Council Victoria
Cancer Council Victoria is the only charity in the state working across every area of every cancer, from research and prevention to support. For 90 years, we have been relentlessly driving progress, backing bold ideas and supporting people at every stage of their cancer experience. Learn more at www.cancervic.org.au
About SunSmart:
The SunSmart program is delivered in partnership with VicHealth and Cancer Council Victoria. SunSmart is one of the longest running and most successful skin cancer prevention and early detection programs in the world. The program is dedicated to reducing skin cancer incidence, morbidity, and mortality.