Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, yet many adults have never had a professional skin check. Despite living in a country with intense UV exposure year-round, it is still common for people to delay or avoid screening because they are unsure when to go, what it involves, or whether it is even necessary unless something looks concerning.
The reality is that skin cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when it is detected early. A routine visit to a GP-led skin clinic is a simple, proactive step that can make a significant difference to long-term health outcomes. Early detection often means less invasive treatment and a far better prognosis.
This article explains Australia’s skin cancer landscape, who should have regular skin checks, how often they are recommended, and what actually happens during an appointment. It also outlines how to monitor your skin between visits so you can stay informed and confident about your health.
Australia’s Skin Cancer Reality
Skin cancer is a major public health issue in Australia due to high UV exposure and lifestyle factors. It remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the country, with both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers contributing significantly to national cancer rates.
In 2025, it is estimated that 17,443 new cases of melanoma will be diagnosed in Australia. Melanoma is expected to remain the third most commonly diagnosed cancer nationally. A person in Australia has approximately a 1 in 19 risk of being diagnosed with melanoma of the skin by the age of 85.
Non-melanoma skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), are even more common, although they are often less likely to spread if treated early. Together, these conditions account for the highest number of cancer diagnoses in Australia each year.
Cancer Australia highlights that early detection continues to play a critical role in improving outcomes. As the melanoma statistics show, the incidence rate is expected to rise to 63 cases per 100,000 persons in 2025, up from 30 per 100,000 in 1982.
While these figures may sound concerning, there is an important positive trend. Survival rates for melanoma have improved significantly over recent decades due to earlier diagnosis and better treatment options. Regular skin checks remain one of the most effective tools for catching changes before they become serious.
Who Should Get a Skin Check?
All Australian adults are encouraged to have their skin professionally checked, even if they have not noticed any unusual spots or changes. Skin cancer can develop in anyone, regardless of age or skin type, although some individuals are at higher risk than others.
Higher-Risk Factors to Be Aware Of
Certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing skin cancer. These include:
- Fair skin that burns easily
- A personal or family history of skin cancer
- A high number of moles or atypical moles
- A history of significant sun exposure, especially blistering sunburns in childhood
- Outdoor occupation or lifestyle with high UV exposure
- A weakened immune system, such as from transplant medication or chronic illness
- Previous use of tanning beds
Understanding these risk factors can help guide how frequently skin checks should occur, but they do not replace professional assessment.
How Often Should You Have a Skin Check?
The recommended frequency of skin checks varies depending on individual risk profile:
- Most adults at low to moderate risk: every one to two years
- Higher-risk individuals: every six to twelve months
- People with a previous skin cancer diagnosis: every three to six months
A GP will assess personal risk factors, including skin type, medical history, and sun exposure, to recommend an appropriate schedule. There is no universal rule that applies to everyone.
It is important not to wait until something looks suspicious. Preventative screening is designed to identify changes early, often before they are visible or symptomatic. Frequency recommendations should always be confirmed by a qualified GP based on individual health history.
What to Expect at a GP Skin Clinic
For many people, uncertainty about the appointment process is what delays booking a skin check. In reality, a visit to a GP-led skin clinic is straightforward, non-invasive, and usually completed within a short consultation.
A GP-led skin clinic provides assessments in a professional and supportive environment, with clear communication at each stage.
Before Your Appointment
A little preparation can help make the appointment smoother:
- Remove nail polish and avoid wearing makeup
- Wear comfortable clothing that can be easily removed
- Note any moles or spots that have changed or concern you
- Bring your Medicare card and any relevant medical history
Being aware of your own skin helps the GP focus on areas that may require closer inspection.
During the Appointment
A typical skin check involves several key steps:
The GP will begin by reviewing your medical history, including any previous skin conditions, family history of skin cancer, and sun exposure habits. This helps determine your level of risk.
A full-body examination is then performed. The GP systematically examines the skin from head to toe, including areas that are not typically exposed to the sun. A dermatoscope is used to examine moles and lesions in greater detail. This handheld device uses magnification and polarised light to assess structural patterns beneath the skin’s surface.
Patients are encouraged to point out any areas of concern during the examination. Most skin checks are conducted with the patient in undergarments, although alternatives such as wearing bathers or gym clothing can be arranged for comfort and privacy.
After the Appointment — If Something Is Found
Most spots assessed during a skin check are benign and require no treatment beyond monitoring and ongoing sun protection.
If a suspicious lesion is identified, the GP will explain the next steps clearly. This may include a biopsy, where a small sample of skin is removed and sent to a pathology laboratory for analysis. This helps confirm whether the lesion is cancerous or benign.
Depending on the findings, further steps may include surgical removal, mole mapping, or referral to a dermatologist for specialist care.
Early detection is key. When skin cancer is identified early, treatment is typically simpler, and outcomes are significantly improved.
Between Appointments — How to Check Your Own Skin
Self-monitoring is a helpful way to stay aware of changes between professional skin checks, although it should never replace clinical assessment.
A useful guide is the ABCDE rule:
- A — Asymmetry: one half of a mole does not match the other
- B — Border: edges are irregular, blurred, or jagged
- C — Colour: uneven colouring or multiple shades
- D — Diameter: larger than 6mm, approximately the size of a pencil eraser
- E — Evolving: any change in size, shape, colour, or symptoms such as itching or bleeding
It is recommended to check your skin once a month in good lighting. This should include less visible areas such as the scalp, back, soles of the feet, and behind the ears. A mirror or assistance from a partner can help with hard-to-see areas.
See a GP promptly if you notice:
- A new or changing mole or spot
- A sore that does not heal
- A lesion that bleeds, itches, or becomes painful
- A spot that looks different from others on your body
Self-checks are a useful supplement to professional skin checks but are not a substitute for clinical assessment by a qualified GP.
Conclusion
Australia’s high UV exposure means skin cancer remains a significant health risk for adults of all ages. However, the most important message is also the most reassuring. When detected early, skin cancer is highly treatable, and regular skin checks are one of the simplest preventative health measures available.
A professional skin check is quick, non-invasive, and tailored to your individual risk profile. It is not only for people who are worried about a specific spot, but a standard part of proactive healthcare for all adults in Australia.
Taking action early can make a meaningful difference. If you have been putting it off, now is the time to prioritise your skin health and make screening part of your routine.
Don’t wait until something changes to take action. Book a skin check now and take one of the most important steps you can for your long-term health.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Skin cancer risk and the appropriate frequency of skin checks vary between individuals. Please consult a qualified GP or healthcare professional for advice tailored to your personal health needs and circumstances.
