Australian Centre for the Prevention of Cervical Cancer

Planning is well underway for ECC2025, the Eliminating Cervical Cancer Conference, taking place virtually on Monday 17 November 2025, 12–3pm AEDT. Hosted by the NHMRC Centre for Excellence in Cervical Cancer Control (C4), this event brings together global voices to share progress, challenges, and innovation in cervical cancer elimination. This year’s theme, “Towards elimination: success, innovation and challenges in implementation”, will be explored through two dynamic sessions: Session 1: progress towards the pillars—featuring speakers and a panel discussion on equity, workforce innovation, and data systems. Session 2: a showcase of C4-funded work—highlighting models of care, and equity initiatives from across the region. It’s shaping up to be a powerful afternoon of learning and collaboration. View program and speakers here: https://lnkd.in/g-D7iitD Register here: https://lnkd.in/gSVguDmJ University of Sydney, Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, University of Melbourne, The Australian National University

We were honoured this week to welcome Her Majesty Queen Nanasipauʻu of Tonga to UNSW. This was an incredible privilege and important milestone in our shared journey to eliminate cervical cancer across the Pacific. In the words of Dr Falahola Fuka whose leadership is driving the program forward in Tonga, “As we embark on this ambitious journey, the path forward is built on the strength of the Tongan community, the dedication of our health professionals, and the unwavering spirit of collaboration.” https://lnkd.in/gzBaRq66

Last week, ACPCC had the privilege of delivering vital training in Tuvalu on the use of the canSCREEN cervical cancer screening registry. Tuvalu continues to do great work in the cervical screening arena, and it was an absolute pleasure to collaborate with the passionate and dedicated team at the Tuvalu Family Health Association (TuFHA). Together, we worked to strengthen data collection processes that will support even better health outcomes.

Next week in Pakistan, HPV vaccine available free to 9-14 year old girls! So thankful to many journalists and media leaders helping to spread the word, like Metro53 in Punjab. Punjab aiming to vaccinate 8 million girls, and we need everyone’s support. https://lnkd.in/etu6J7TS

Thanks Kathleen Schmeler for linking Australian Centre for the Prevention of Cervical Cancer with Indonesian colleagues working to eliminate cervical cancer. Great to see you and Assoc. Prof. Dave Hawkes in action.

For Nerita Leong, cohealth Sexual and Reproductive Health Nurse, Women’s Health Week is all about raising awareness. ”It reminds women, girls and gender diverse people that their health matters, empowering them to be proactive with steps to improve and maintain their health.” Essential in this proactive healthcare is a strong relationship between clients and nurses. ”We build rapport and trust by providing safe, supportive, and confidential care,” says Nerita. “If we can have open, non-judgemental communication, really listen to what our clients are telling us and allow time and space for people to discuss their concerns, we give better care.” This is especially important where language barriers and cultural differences make navigating the healthcare system difficult for some women. Sometimes, says Nerita, stigma also plays a role and part of her job is to help her clients overcome this. ”The more we talk about and normalise women's health and sexual health, the more we encourage people to access the healthcare they need.” cohealth’s nurse-led women’s health service in Footscray offers bulk billed contraception, medical abortions, pregnancy planning, cervical screening tests and more.

Congratulations from us too!

“Cervical cancer IS preventable, and screening is one of the most important tools…” Prof Marion Saville AM Find out more at Jean Hailes for Women's Health