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The Australian government has released Cancer Australia's National Framework for Genomics in Cancer Control, marking a significant step toward improved cancer outcomes through personalised cancer care.
It has the potential to deliver vital insights into the way gene mutations drive cancer behaviour. The role of genomics in cancer prevention, screening, diagnosis and treatment is expanding rapidly, with broad implications for patient care.
The Framework will guide health professionals, researchers, health services, and policymakers in safely and effectively incorporating genomics into cancer care. Cancer Australia’s vision is to make genomics a standard part of clinical practice, ensuring high-quality, culturally safe cancer care is accessible for all Australians.
The Framework sets out specific goals for the future of genomics-informed cancer care and lays out actions for implementation across the cancer care continuum and the broader health system.
Goals within the Framework emphasise the need for evidence-based genomic testing to guide personalised prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment. They also highlight the importance of building workforce capability in genomics and cultural safety and educating and empowering communities to understand the role of genomics in cancer care.
The development of the Framework was informed by extensive public consultation, including a focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and a rigorous review of national and international evidence.
A National Framework for Genomics in Cancer Control was identified as a priority action under the Australian Cancer Plan. The Framework provides a policy basis for equitable access to genomic medicine for all Australians affected by cancer.
