Resources, evidence summaries, and contact information for decision-makers and journalists.
UVI3 is calling for the Australian Government to establish a two-phase National Sunscreen Program: beginning with free SPF 50+ sunscreen in schools, childcare centres, universities, and community clubs (Phase 1), and ultimately extending free sunscreen to all Australians through Medicare (Phase 2).
This evidence-based brief addresses Australia's status as a global outlier in skin cancer rates, makes the economic case for prevention over treatment ($150 Medicare savings per $1 spent on sunscreen), and sets out the full Medicare precedent and equity arguments for Phase 2 coverage.
International research published in Nature identifies Australia as the only country where UV radiation is the leading preventable cause of cancer in men. Our UV exposure levels are among the highest on Earth.
Regular sunscreen use significantly reduces melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer risk. A national program would cost a fraction of current treatment expenditure while reducing long-term healthcare burden.
When prevention depends on individual purchasing power, protection becomes inconsistent. A national program ensures equitable access regardless of income, postcode, or institutional resources.
Australia already funds vaccines, road safety infrastructure, and smoking prevention programs. Sunscreen belongs in the same category: essential public health infrastructure that saves lives and reduces costs.
Free SPF 50+ sunscreen in childcare centres, schools, universities, TAFEs, community facilities, and sporting clubs. This targets high-exposure environments where young Australians spend significant time outdoors.
Extension to beaches, parks, public pools, and outdoor workplaces. This phase normalises sunscreen as public health infrastructure in all high-exposure settings.
Free sunscreen for all Australians through pharmacies, health centres, and community distribution points. This achieves full population coverage and maximises prevention impact.
Download our campaign materials for use in editorial coverage, policy briefings, and advocacy work. All materials may be reproduced with attribution to UVI3 (www.uvi3.org).
2 pages · PDF · March 2026
A concise one-page overview of the campaign: the problem, key statistics, the three-phase policy proposal, and Alex's founding story. Ideal for quick reference, social sharing, or inclusion in briefing packs.
Download Fact Sheet (PDF)7 pages · PDF · March 2026
The complete media and policy resource: founder story, Australia's skin cancer crisis, key statistics, the full three-phase policy proposal, the economic case, international context, key messages, and interview contact details.
Download Full Media Kit (PDF)For interviews, comments, or additional information, please contact our media team.
[email protected]For detailed policy discussions or briefing requests, please get in touch.
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