Department of Health

Cancer care

Cancer is the leading cause of mortality in Victoria and generates a high level of community concern. The care of cancer patients represents a significant proportion of all healthcare delivered in Victoria.

Government invests in a range of reforms and actions to reduce cancer incidence and mortality, improve access to quality detection, screening and treatment services and to enhance the quality of life of those affected by cancer. This approach to cancer control encompasses specific programs across:

  • the prevention, detection (including through organised screening programs), diagnosis and treatment of cancer and its precursors,
  • the ongoing management of cancer, rehabilitation, and the provision of end-of-life care,
  • cancer research and its application,
  • cancer-related policy, the organisation of services, planning and service development, and
  • innovation, quality improvement and evaluation.

The need for improved delivery of cancer services along with improved outcomes for patients and their families has been identified as a priority for both the state and federal governments.

Victorian cancer plan

The cancer plan has been developed to provide policy leadership and common goals for organisations working in the cancer control arena in Victoria.

Optimal care pathways

These national frameworks have been developed to provide a consistent statewide approach to cancer care, and were preceded by ‘patient management frameworks’.

Cancer screening

Cancer screening programs look for early signs of the disease or indications that a person is more likely to develop the disease in the future.

Cancer treatment

Following a cancer diagnosis, all Victorians should get the best treatment and care, regardless of where they live or who they are.

Cancer wellbeing and supportive care

Providing supportive care is vital to delivering quality cancer care

Cancer research

The Department of Health is committed to supporting and building capacity in Victoria’s cancer research workforce and future.

Reviewed 22 April 2025

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More information

Contact details

Statewide and Specialist Programs Department of Health

50 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000
cancerplanning@health.vic.gov.au
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