Celebrating one year of the National Lung Cancer Screening Program  

One year on from the launch of the Australian Government funded National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP), Lung Foundation Australia is celebrating an important milestone in improving lung health across Australia. 

As of 22^nd June 2026, over 100,000 Australians have enrolled in the NLCSP since its launch on 1^st July 2025, an average of more than 286 people every day. This strong uptake reflects growing awareness of the importance of early detection and the life-saving potential of lung cancer screening. 

We’re proud to support the program in several ways, helping Australians access trusted information, navigate the screening process and ensure more people can benefit from early detection. 

Through partnerships with national health organisations, we’re helping improve access to tailored information for priority populations. This includes people living in rural and remote areas, people living with disability, people experiencing mental health challenges, people from multicultural communities and people from LGBTIQA+ communities. We know that many factors can influence participation, and we’re committed to equitable information and access for everyone. 

Watch Orelia explain how we’re supporting priority populations funded by the Australian Government: 

Another key part of our activity is the Lung Cancer Screening Helpline, funded by the Australian Government. Since the program began, our nurses have supported over 3,000 enquiries by answering questions, providing guidance and helping people understand what to expect throughout the screening process. 

As our CEO Mark Brooke reflects, the success of the program’s first year is the result of collaboration between the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, Cancer Australia, the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation, Heart of Australia, healthcare professionals, community champions and many others working together to improve lung health outcomes. 

Watch Mark Brooke reflect on the program’s first year:  

For our Lung Cancer Screening Helpline nurses, the most rewarding part has been supporting people through what can often feel like an unfamiliar journey. From answering questions about the NLCSP and what to expect, to hearing from people about their diagnosis, treatment or plans to protect their lung health, every conversation reinforces the value of accessible and compassionate care.  

Hear from Christine, one of our Lung Cancer Screening Helpline nurses:

As more people access lung cancer screening, Lung Foundation Australia remains committed to our vision of healthy lungs for all. Together, we’re helping more Australians access screening, detect lung cancer earlier when treatment is more effective, and take proactive steps towards better lung health. 

If you’d like to learn more about the NLCSP or speak with a nurse, call the free Lung Cancer Screening Helpline on 1800 654 301 (option 2) or email us at [email protected].