A silent epidemic is unfolding in Victoria, with skin cancer rates on the rise and a particular group bearing the brunt of this deadly disease.
As of January 19, 2026, the numbers paint a concerning picture. Medicare data reveals a staggering 12.3% surge in non-melanoma skin cancer treatments over just two years, with over 170,000 procedures recorded in the state last year. This is a stark contrast to the estimated 151,355 treatments in 2022.
But here's where it gets controversial... while melanoma is the most lethal form of skin cancer, non-melanoma cancers are far more prevalent. And with no central registry, we rely solely on Medicare data to track these trends.
The two main types of non-melanoma skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Basal cell carcinoma, accounting for about 70% of non-melanoma cases in Australia, originates in the lower epidermis layer and often appears on the shoulders and back. Squamous cell carcinoma, less common but still a concern, takes root in the upper epidermis layer and is commonly found on the forearms and lower legs.
A recent report from the Victorian Cancer Registry adds to the worry. It found that regional Victorians are 51% more likely to be diagnosed with melanoma compared to those in Greater Melbourne and Geelong. The same group is also 35% more likely to succumb to melanoma.
Louise Bibby, a rural Victorian now working in Swan Hill, shares her story. At just 22 years old, she had a basal cell carcinoma removed by her GP, despite her childhood precautions of sunscreen and rash vests.
"I noticed a small lump on my hairline, thinking it might be a pimple. But it didn't go away, and one day, I scratched my forehead and saw blood running down my face," Bibby recalls.
The cancer reformed along the scar line, leading to a more complex "flap procedure" to remove it. This technique, moving skin from an adjacent area to cover the wound, offers better healing and cosmetic results than skin grafts from different body parts.
"From then on, I started yearly checks," Bibby says. She has since undergone multiple surgeries on her face, scalp, and chest.
"With my fair hair, most of my basal cell carcinomas are on my head. I've had 10 procedures just on my scalp and hairline."
While some treatments require a week-long recovery, Bibby emphasizes the importance of early detection to avoid more complicated procedures later.
"Two-thirds of people will be diagnosed with skin cancer by age 70. My grandparents were in that category. I'm very aware that melanoma runs in my family, so I educate my friends and family, especially now that I'm turning 40."
Melanoma's tendency to metastasize makes it the deadliest skin cancer, but Emma Glassenbury, head of SunSmart at Cancer Council Victoria, stresses the seriousness of non-melanoma cancers too.
"People can still die from non-melanoma skin cancers. They're usually managed through excision, but they're preventable, so we should take every prevention measure."
Men tend to have more skin cancers on their head and neck, while women are more likely to have melanomas on their upper and lower limbs, possibly due to clothing and hairstyle differences.
Glassenbury highlights fair skin, a history of severe sunburn (especially in the first two decades of life), a family history of skin cancer, and having many moles as the main risk factors.
"The most important thing is for people to know their own skin and what looks familiar to them. Any changes or concerns, see your GP for a skin check. If you're at high risk, have a skin plan with your GP."
She adds that 95% of melanomas and 99% of non-melanoma skin cancers are largely preventable with appropriate sun protection.
"Extreme UV levels can cause damage in less than 15 minutes, even on cool and windy days."
So, while Victoria's summer temperatures may be cooler than more northerly states, it's crucial for all Victorians to layer up their sun protection.
Are you taking the necessary precautions to protect your skin?
Let's discuss in the comments: What steps do you take to prevent skin cancer? Do you think enough is being done to raise awareness about this issue?
