Australia has long been a global leader in cervical cancer prevention — and the latest Cervical Cancer Elimination Progress Report shows we’re closer than ever to a historic milestone: eliminating cervical cancer as a public health problem.
But what does that mean for the average woman (or gender diverse people with a cervix) across Australia? Read on to learn more about protecting yourself and helping Australia eliminate cervical cancer.
What Does “Cervical Cancer Elimination” Mean in Australia?
The World Health Organization defines elimination as fewer than 4 new cases per 100,000 women.
This doesn’t mean zero cases (unfortunately). However, it does mean cervical cancer becomes rare, largely preventable, and detected early enough to dramatically reduce harm.
Cervical cancer is one of the only cancers where elimination is possible because:
- We know the primary cause (HPV infection)
- We have a highly effective vaccine
- We have a screening test that detects risk before cancer develops
That combination is powerful.
Cervical Cancer Rates in Australia Are Declining. Here’s Why
Australia’s cervical cancer incidence continues to fall. In 2021, the rate was 6.3 cases per 100,000 women, a steady decline compared to previous decades.
For the first time since national data collection began, no cervical cancer cases were diagnosed in women under 25 in 2021 — a milestone strongly linked to HPV vaccination.
This progress reflects the combined impact of:
- The National HPV Vaccination Program
- The National Cervical Screening Program
- Improved follow-up and treatment pathways
HPV Vaccination in Australia: Why It Matters
Almost all cervical cancers are caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Australia introduced the HPV vaccine in 2007 and was one of the first countries to implement a national school-based program.
Vaccination has:
- Reduced high-risk HPV infections
- Reduced precancerous cervical abnormalities
- Reduced cervical cancer rates in younger age groups
However, recent data shows vaccination coverage by age 15 has declined. Coverage remains strong, but any drop in uptake can affect long-term elimination targets.
Maintaining high HPV vaccination rates, across metro, regional and remote communities is essential for continued protection for generations to come.
Cervical Screening Test (Previously Called a Pap Smear): Regular Testing Still Matters
Let’s be honest, getting a “Pap smear” isn’t always the most comfortable experience. And if something is a little uncomfortable or awkward, it’s tempting to postpone.
However, even with HPV vaccination, getting a cervical screening test is one of the most powerful tools we have to prevent cervical cancer.
In Australia, the old Pap smear was replaced in 2017 with the Cervical Screening Test (CST). While many people still use the term “Pap smear,” the current test is different, and more accurate.
Instead of looking for abnormal cervical cells first (as the Pap smear did), the Cervical Screening Test checks for high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) — the virus responsible for almost all cervical cancers. If HPV is detected, the sample is then examined for cell changes.
This approach allows risk to be identified earlier and monitored more safely.
“If you remember being told to have a Pap smear every two years, that was the previous recommendation. Since 2017, Australia has used a more sensitive HPV-based Cervical Screening Test, which is why the interval is now five years.”
The latest elimination progress report highlights mixed results. Many people are now screened at least once in their lifetime, a significant public health achievement. However, overall participation and “up-to-date” screening rates have declined in recent years.
The report notes that more than one in four eligible participants had not screened within the recommended interval — highlighting the importance of re-engaging people who may have delayed or avoided testing.
Cervical cancer often develops silently. Screening doesn’t just detect cancer — it prevents it.
If you’ve been putting it off, you’re not alone. Self-collection is now available in Australia, allowing eligible patients to collect their own vaginal sample in a clinical setting. For many people, this option feels more comfortable and less invasive.
Cervical Cancer Inequities in Australia: Who Is Still at Higher Risk?
National averages don’t tell the whole story. While Australia is making strong progress overall, not everyone benefits equally from prevention programs.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women continue to experience higher rates of cervical cancer and lower survival compared to non-Indigenous women. People living in regional and remote areas are less likely to be vaccinated or up to date with screening. And financial or social disadvantages can make preventive care harder to access.
These gaps are not about individual responsibility — they reflect differences in access, culturally safe care, trust in healthcare systems, and practical barriers like distance, cost, time and childcare.
Eliminating cervical cancer isn’t just about lowering national numbers. It means ensuring everyone, regardless of postcode, income, gender identity or cultural background, can access vaccination, screening and timely follow-up care.
Prevention only works when it works for everyone.
How to Reduce Your Risk of Cervical Cancer
If you have a cervix, there are two key ways to reduce your risk:
1. Stay up to date with HPV vaccination: The vaccine is most effective before exposure to HPV, but catch-up programs are available.
2. Attend cervical screening every five years: Even if you’ve had the HPV vaccine. Even if you feel well. Remember that cervical cancer often develops silently at first.
If you experience symptoms such as unusual bleeding (between periods, after sex, or after menopause), pelvic pain, or unusual discharge, seek medical review promptly.
The Bottom Line
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers and Australia is leading the world in showing what’s possible.
Elimination isn’t about perfection. It’s about sustained prevention, equitable access and informed choices.
If you have a cervix, keeping up to date with HPV vaccination and cervical screening is a simple but powerful step. Prevention doesn’t require urgency or stress, but it does require participation.
Elimination is achievable. And it works best when it works for everyone.
DISCLAIMER: Throughout this article, we sometimes reference “women” when reflecting national data and reporting categories used in public health research. We recognise that cervical cancer affects anyone with a cervix, including transgender men and non-binary people. Hazel is committed to inclusive, respectful care where all gender identities and pronouns are affirmed.
