Australia continues to experience some of the highest skin cancer rates in the world — and in 2023, the statistics remain a strong reminder of why early detection is so important. High UV levels, outdoor lifestyles, and cumulative sun exposure all contribute to the rising burden of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers nationwide.
At SkinCheck Australia, our role is simple:
Provide fast, accurate, and comprehensive skin checks to protect your health.
Here’s what the latest data reveals — and why Queenslanders should be especially vigilant.
Australia’s Skin Cancer Statistics in 2023
Skin cancer remains Australia’s most commonly diagnosed cancer. In 2023:
Melanoma
- 18,000+ new cases nationally
- 1,527 deaths recorded in 2023
- One of the top five most diagnosed cancers in Australia
Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer (NMSC)
- 350,000+ cases treated (with estimates exceeding 1 million annually)
- Includes basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
These numbers highlight the urgent need for regular, high-quality skin checks, especially in regions with extreme UV exposure.
Why Australia’s UV Levels Are Higher Than Other Countries
Australia’s UV Index is consistently among the highest in the world. This is due to:
• Geographic Location
Australia’s latitude means stronger direct sunlight year-round.
• Clear Skies, Low Pollution
UV radiation is less filtered compared to more polluted northern-hemisphere cities.
• Seasonal UV That Never Truly Drops
Even in winter, UV levels often remain high enough to cause skin damage.
• Historically Lower Ozone Protection
This allows more UVB radiation to reach the ground.
In countries like the UK or Canada, UV levels average between 2–6.
In Australia, summer UV often sits between 10–14, reaching “extreme” levels daily.
Queensland: The Skin Cancer Capital
Queensland consistently holds the highest skin cancer rates in Australia, and among the highest worldwide.
Reasons include:
✔ Extremely High UV Index
Queensland frequently records extreme UV all year, including winter days.
✔ Outdoor Lifestyle
Work, sport, and recreation all contribute to continuous sun exposure.
✔ Fair-Skinned Population
Many Queenslanders have skin types that burn easily and are more vulnerable to UV damage.
✔ Cumulative Sun Exposure Over a Lifetime
Childhood and teenage exposure play a major role in adult melanoma risk.
This combination makes regular skin checks essential — not optional.
How SkinCheck Australia Protects You
Our specialists provide:
• Same-day or next-day appointments
Zero wait times mean you aren’t left wondering.
• Full-body dermoscopic skin checks
Using high-resolution imaging to detect early changes.
• Immediate results & clear explanations
Your clinician walks you through your dermoscopic images on the spot.
• On-site biopsies if required
Fast diagnosis = faster treatment.
Early detection saves lives — and we make it accessible, fast, and stress-free.
Takeaway for 2023–2024
Australia’s skin cancer rates aren’t slowing down — but early detection dramatically improves outcomes.
If you’re in Queensland, or anywhere with high UV exposure, a skin check isn’t just recommended…
It’s vital.