Regional areas hit hardest in Victoria’s melanoma spike

By Taylah Baker

Feb 3, 2025

**Recent data shows men and those in regional areas are more likely to be diagnosed with melanoma.** *Photo by AAP Image/Dan Himbrechts.*

A serious health concern has cast a shadow over the sunny days ahead for Victorians.

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Data from Cancer Council Victoria’s SunSmart program shows melanoma diagnoses are on the rise, with people living in regional areas and men more likely to be diagnosed.

In 2023, 3182 Victorians — 1860 males and 1320 females — were diagnosed with melanoma, marking a significant increase from the 2884 new cases reported in 2022.

Notably, the data revealed that 1205 of these new cases originated from regional Victoria, where individuals were 54 per cent more likely to be diagnosed than those in major cities.

Head of SunSmart Emma Glassenbury said the rise in reported melanoma cases may partially stem from fewer diagnoses during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to an increase in cases between 2022 and 2023.

Despite these alarming figures, there is a glimmer of hope.

The rate of melanoma among Victorians aged 25 to 49 has decreased by 52 per cent since 1997.

This decline corresponds with a generation of Victorians who grew up with the iconic SunSmart ‘slip slop slap’ messaging from the 1980s, which has since expanded to include ‘slide’ (on sunglasses) and ‘seek’ (shade).

Now, the Victorian Government is refocusing its efforts on reinforcing this vital message.

“Government funding for programs and campaigns that promote sun safety and early skin cancer detection, especially for priority populations, is a vital and important investment that saves lives and reduces the eventual costs on the health system,” Ms Glassenbury said.

“It’s encouraging to see skin cancer prevention through the SunSmart program listed as a priority in the Victorian Government’s Cancer Plan.”

Acting Health Minister Ingrid Stitt expressed the government’s pride in supporting SunSmart’s efforts to protect Victorians from skin cancer, urging residents to remain vigilant this summer.

“Australia has some of the highest UV levels in the world, and all it takes is 11 minutes outdoors without sun protection to cause damage to our skin,” she said.

“Whether at the beach, working outdoors or spending time in the garden, Victorians should protect themselves by covering up, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, and seeking shade.

“Skin cancer prevention and early detection saves lives.”

For more information, visit sunsmart.com.au or download the SunSmart Global UV App.