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Australia’s New National Lung Cancer Screening Program: A Vital Step in Early Detection

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Please note that this post was written for Victorian audiences and the information within may not apply to other regions.

Australia’s New National Lung Cancer Screening Program: A Vital Step in Early Detection

As of 1 July 2025, Australia has officially launched the National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP), a significant public health initiative offering free low-dose CT (LDCT) scans to eligible Australians at higher risk of lung cancer.

For workers exposed to harmful dusts and other hazardous substances, such as in mining, construction, firefighting or manufacturing, this is not just about cancer. It’s a powerful opportunity to uncover occupational lung diseases earlier – when intervention can be most effective. It is expected that due to this program, 70 out of 100 lung cancers will be found at an early stage.


What Is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer starts in the lungs and is caused by the uncontrollable growth of abnormal cells. It often develops without symptoms, meaning many people aren’t diagnosed until the disease is advanced. According to Cancer Council Victoria, lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths and is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia. However, when detected early, the chances of effective treatment and survival increase dramatically.

It is important to note that approximately 20% of Australians with lung cancer have never smoked. Although the NLSCP will not cover the screening cost for non-smokers, it would be worthwhile to consider getting screened.


What Is Lung Cancer Screening?

Screening is a proactive health check using a low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan. This involves using small (and safe) amounts of radiation to capture detailed images of the lungs, allowing health professionals to look for signs of cancer or other abnormalities before respiratory symptoms appear, such as an unexplained persistent cough. The scan itself is quick (taking around 10 seconds), painless, and non-invasive. While screening doesn’t provide a diagnosis on its own, it can flag early changes in the lungs that may require further testing.


Who Is Eligible?

You may be eligible for the NLCSP if you:

  • Are aged between 50 and 70 years; and
  • Have no symptoms or signs that suggest lung cancer (e.g., unexplained shortness of breath or coughing up blood); and
  • Are a current or former smoker who has:
    • Quit within the last 10 years; and
    • Smoked tobacco cigarettes for 30 pack-years or more (for example: 1 pack a day for 30 years, or 2 packs a day for 15 years)

You can use the Lung Cancer Screening Decision Tool to check your eligibility.


Why It’s Important for Workers Exposed to Dust

While the program focuses on early lung cancer detection, the scans may also identify otherserious work-related lung conditions that are often overlooked until they cause significant damage. These include:

Early signs such as scarring, inflammation, or abnormal tissue growth may be detected through the scan, offering a critical window for early treatment and support.


Why This Program Matters

For workers in high-risk environments, the NLCSP is more than a cancer check – it’s a proactive tool for lung health. It can lead to earlier interventions, improve long-term outcomes, and potentially save lives.

It can be stressful to participate in lung cancer screening. However, the good news is that up to 51% of people having their first lung screening scan will have nodules detected. However, over 95% of these nodules are not cancer.

To learn more or to begin the screening process, visit the National Lung Cancer Screening Program website or talk to your general practitioner.


When Lung Changes Are Detected: Could You Be Entitled to Compensation?

If your screening reveals abnormalities or early signs of disease, it’s vital to follow up with your healthcare provider. In some cases, these findings may indicate a work-related lung condition or occupational cancer, particularly if you have been exposed to hazardous substances such as silica, asbestos, coal dust, or industrial chemicals.

Workers diagnosed with an occupational lung condition or cancer may be entitled to compensation, which can include:

It’s important to provide your doctor with a thorough occupational history, especially if you suspect your condition may be related to your employment. While symptoms may take years to appear after exposure, early detection and preventative screening, like the NLCSP, offers a crucial opportunity to intervene sooner.