Melanoma in Australia: The Statistics You Need to Know

May is Melanoma Awareness Month, and with Australia having one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, it's a critical time to raise awareness about the impact of melanoma—and how it can be prevented.

Here at SParms, we’re passionate about sun safety and early education. To help inform and protect our community, we’ve compiled some of the most eye-opening melanoma statistics in Australia. These numbers highlight just how serious this disease is—and why prevention and early detection are key.

Melanoma in Australia: The Numbers

Australia Has the Highest Rates of Melanoma in the World

Australia is often referred to as the "skin cancer capital of the world," and for good reason. Due to our geographic location, fair-skinned population, and high UV exposure, Australians face greater melanoma risks than almost any other nation.

Over 18,000 Australians Will Be Diagnosed in 2023

According to Cancer Australia, an estimated 18,257 new cases of melanoma of the skin will be diagnosed in 2023—10,639 males and 7,618 females. This makes melanoma one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the country.

Melanoma Is the Most Common Cancer Among Young Australians

For Australians aged 20 to 39, melanoma is the most common cancer. This highlights the importance of starting sun-safe habits early, including the use of UPF50+ clothing, regular sunscreen application, and routine skin checks.

Over 1,300 Deaths Are Expected in 2023

An estimated 1,314 Australians will die from melanoma in 2023—853 males and 461 females. While early-detected melanoma has a survival rate of over 90%, late-stage melanoma is much harder to treat, making early diagnosis crucial.

95% of Melanomas Are Caused by UV Exposure

The vast majority of melanomas are linked to overexposure to UV radiation. This means most cases are preventable with the right sun safety measures—like wearing UPF50+ protective gear, applying sunscreen, and staying in the shade during peak UV hours.

What You Can Do to Reduce Your Risk

• Wear UPF50+ protective clothing like SParms sleeves, shoulder wraps, gloves and neck gaiters

• Apply broad-spectrum SPF50+ sunscreen every two hours when outdoors

• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes

• Avoid sun exposure during peak UV hours (10am–4pm)

• Get annual skin checks and perform monthly self-examinations

Final Thoughts

These statistics paint a sobering picture, but they also serve as a powerful reminder: most melanoma cases are preventable. Through awareness, education, and protective habits, we can help reduce the impact of melanoma in Australia.

This Melanoma Awareness Month, take a moment to protect your skin, encourage your loved ones to get a skin check, and make sun safety part of your daily routine.

SParms is proud to support a sun-smart Australia.