National Bowel Cancer Screening Program
The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program is an Australian Government initiative which aims to reduce illness and death from bowel cancer by detecting the early signs of the disease using a free, simple test that can be done at home. Learn more about the Program.
People aged 45–74 are eligible for a free test kit every 2 years. If you are 50–74 you will automatically be invited to complete a test kit every two years. Australians aged 45–49 can request a free screening test.
National Cancer Screening Register
The National Cancer Screening Register supports the life-saving bowel, cervical and lung cancer screening programs by inviting and reminding eligible people to screen, and creates a safety net by prompting participants to take the next steps on their screening journey. Learn more about the Register.
Participants and healthcare providers can access cancer screening information and manage participation in the bowel, cervical, and lung cancer screening programs through secure online portals.
Why bowel screening is important
Bowel cancer often develops without any symptoms. The cancer can grow in the bowel for years before spreading to other parts of the body.
Very small amounts of blood can leak from these growths and pass into your poo. These tiny amounts of blood are not noticeable just by looking – that's where screening comes in.
Screening can find tiny amounts of blood in your poo that may be a sign of bowel cancer. The good news is that if found early, over 90% of bowel cancers can be successfully treated.1
Earlier diagnosis also means treatment can be less invasive.
Bowel cancer currently kills more people in NSW than prostate cancer, breast cancer or melanoma, and it accounted for 10.2% of all cancer diagnoses in NSW in 2021.
Despite this, currently only 40%[1] of eligible people in NSW take part in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program - much lower than screening for breast or cervical cancer.
Am I eligible for bowel cancer screening?
You are eligible to do the screening test every 2 years if you:
- are between the ages of 45 and 74
- have a green Medicare card and entitlement type of either Australian citizen, permanent migrant or are registered as a Department of Veterans' Affairs customer
- have an Australian mailing address.
You can also provide an alternative address for correspondence related to your bowel screening test kits by using the National Cancer Screening Register Participant Portal or by calling 1800 627 701.
You should receive your first invitation around the time of your 50th birthday, but it may be up to six months after. Check when you are due to receive your free bowel screening test.
For further information please visit the National Cancer Screening Register or phone 1800 627 701.
Real stories about the importance of doing the test
Rosie's experience of doing the bowel cancer test.
Melahat's message about doing the bowel cancer test.
What if I am not eligible?
If you are not eligible to be sent a free kit through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, you can speak with your doctor about your screening options. Bowel screening kits are available for purchase at pharmacies and online.
If you are experiencing any signs or symptoms, including changes in your bowel habits, speak to a doctor as soon as possible.
