Cancer survival rates in New South Wales (NSW) have reached a historic high, with 73% of individuals surviving at least five years following a cancer diagnosis. This figure reflects an increase from 71% percent, as detailed in the latest Cancer in NSW Report 2025 published by the Cancer Institute NSW. The report highlights the state’s collaborative efforts to combat cancer and emphasizes advancements in fields such as immunotherapy, genomics, and digital health technologies.
The report indicates that cancer incidence rates are stabilising, while mortality rates are steadily decreasing. Notably, bowel and lung cancers have experienced the most significant reductions in mortality over the past decade. These developments underscore the effectiveness of ongoing initiatives aimed at improving cancer care and outcomes across the state.
Addressing Health Inequities
Despite progress, disparities remain in cancer outcomes, particularly among Aboriginal populations who are twice as likely to succumb to cancer compared to non-Aboriginal counterparts. Additionally, individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds face a 50% higher risk of cancer-related deaths than those from more affluent backgrounds. The report highlights ongoing efforts to address these inequities, including initiatives designed to enhance access to clinical trials.
In the period of 2024-25, nearly 3,300 individuals participated in cancer clinical trials, a notable increase from 2,571 in the previous year. The number of unique clinical trials also rose, from 795 to 858, reflecting an expanding commitment to research and innovation in cancer treatment.
The NSW Cancer Plan 2022-2027 serves as a guiding framework for the state’s cancer control efforts. The Cancer Institute NSW collaborates with over 80 organizations, including government and community stakeholders, to reduce cancer’s impact and save lives. The NSW Government allocates approximately $180 million annually through the Cancer Institute to improve cancer outcomes statewide.
Commitment to Improvement
In a statement, NSW Health Minister Ryan Park emphasized the importance of continued efforts to enhance cancer care. He noted, “Cancer is a disease that doesn’t discriminate and has the power to change lives in an instant. While our state’s survival rates rank among the best in the world, collectively cancers remain the leading cause of premature disease-related death.” He acknowledged the increasing demands on cancer care due to the growing and aging population and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing cancer care needs.
Professor Tracey O’Brien AM, the NSW Chief Cancer Officer and Chief Executive of the Cancer Institute NSW, also commented on the report. She stated, “While NSW is recognised as a global leader in cancer outcomes, very few people are untouched by this devastating disease. We must continue our efforts to tackle cancer and its profound burden on our community.”
The insights provided in the Cancer in NSW Report 2025 reflect a commitment to not only maintaining high survival rates but also addressing the unique needs of diverse communities across the state. As the fight against cancer continues, the emphasis remains on collaboration, innovation, and equitable access to care.
