Alarming Rise in Skin Cancer Cases in Victoria: Who’s Most at Risk?
As of January 19, 2026, a startling trend has emerged in Victoria—skin cancer rates are climbing, and certain groups are bearing the brunt of this health crisis. But here’s where it gets even more concerning: thousands more Victorians are undergoing procedures to remove skin cancers compared to just a few years ago, raising fears that complacency about sun safety might be creeping in.
Medicare data, meticulously analyzed by Cancer Council Victoria, reveals a shocking statistic: over 170,000 treatments for non-melanoma skin cancers were recorded in the state last year, a significant jump from the estimated 151,355 treatments in 2022. This represents a 12.3% surge in procedures in just two years—far outpacing Victoria’s population growth of about 5% during the same period. And this is the part most people miss: while melanoma grabs headlines as the deadliest form of skin cancer, non-melanoma skin cancers are far more common. Yet, without a centralized registry, Medicare data remains our only window into this growing issue.
Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers: The Silent Epidemic
Non-melanoma skin cancers primarily come in two forms: basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Basal cell carcinoma, accounting for roughly 70% of cases in Australia, originates in the lower layer of the epidermis. It can appear anywhere but is frequently found on areas like the shoulders and back. Squamous cell carcinoma, though less common, takes root in the upper epidermis and often appears on the forearms and lower legs. Both types are treatable, but their prevalence underscores the urgent need for prevention.
Regional Victorians Face Higher Risks
The analysis comes on the heels of a startling report from the Victorian Cancer Registry, which found that regional Victorians are 51% more likely to be diagnosed with melanoma compared to those in Greater Melbourne and Geelong. Even more alarming, this group is 35% more likely to die from melanoma. Why? Factors like limited access to healthcare, sun safety awareness, and lifestyle differences likely play a role. But here’s the controversial question: Are we doing enough to protect those in regional areas, or are they being left behind in the fight against skin cancer?
A Personal Story of Survival
Take Louise Bibby, for example. Growing up in rural Victoria and now working in Swan Hill, she had a basal cell carcinoma removed at just 22 years old—despite diligently using sunscreen and rash vests as a child. “I noticed a small lump on my hairline,” she recalls. “I thought it was a pimple, but it didn’t go away. One day, I scratched my forehead, and blood started running down my face.” The cancer returned along the scar line, requiring a complex “flap procedure” to remove it. Since then, Bibby has undergone yearly checks and multiple surgeries on her face, scalp, and chest. “I have very fair hair, so most of my basal cell carcinomas are on my head,” she explains. “I’ve had 10 procedures just on my scalp and hairline.”
Her story highlights the importance of early detection. While some treatments require over a week of recovery, catching skin cancer early can prevent the need for more invasive procedures later. “Two-thirds of people will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they’re 70,” Bibby notes. “Melanoma runs in my family, so now that I’m turning 40, I’m passionate about educating my loved ones.”
Prevention: The Best Defense
Melanoma’s ability to metastasize makes it the deadliest skin cancer, but Emma Glassenbury, head of SunSmart at Cancer Council Victoria, stresses that non-melanoma skin cancers shouldn’t be overlooked. “People can still die from these cancers,” she warns. “While they’re often treatable through excision, they’re largely preventable. We need to take every precaution.”
Key risk factors include fair skin, a history of severe sunburn (especially in childhood), a family history of skin cancer, and having numerous moles. Glassenbury emphasizes, “Get to know your skin. If you notice any changes, see your GP immediately. If you’re at high risk, work with your doctor to create a skin care plan.”
Here’s a startling fact: 95% of melanomas and 99% of non-melanoma skin cancers are preventable with proper sun protection. Yet, even in Victoria’s cooler summer climate, UV damage can occur in less than 15 minutes. “Layering protection—wearing a hat, long-sleeved clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and seeking shade—is crucial,” Glassenbury advises. “UV damage doesn’t discriminate, even on cool, windy days.”
A Call to Action
As skin cancer rates continue to rise, the question remains: Are we doing enough to protect ourselves and our communities? Regional Victorians face higher risks, but everyone, regardless of location, must prioritize sun safety. Early detection and prevention are key—but is our current approach sufficient? We want to hear from you. Do you think more needs to be done to combat skin cancer, especially in regional areas? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let’s start a conversation that could save lives.
