Cervical screening saves lives
The National Cervical Screening Program (NCSP) aim is to reduce the impact of cervical cancer.
Cervical screening is a straightforward test that checks for the presence of HPV – a common virus that can cause cervical cancer.
Cervical screening does not check for, or prevent, other cancers such as ovarian or endometrial cancer.
Why screening is important
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Most cervical cancers occur in people who have never screened or do not screen regularly. Having regular screening tests is the best way to protect yourself. The test detects the presence of HPV so that it can be monitored or investigated further if needed.
Since the program began in 1991, the number of people developing cervical cancer has decreased significantly.
Read more about the effectiveness of the screening program.
What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cervix – the entrance to the womb from the vagina.
It happens when there are changes in some cells lining the cervix. Sometimes these abnormal cells grow and multiply and can develop into cancer.
Find out more about cervical cancer.
The Cervical Screening Test
The Cervical Screening Test replaced the Pap test in 2017.
The Cervical Screening Test looks for HPV (a common infection spread during sexual activity) which can lead to cell changes in the cervix.
An HPV vaccine is available. It protects against up to 9 types of HPV, including those that cause around 70% of cervical cancers. Since the HPV vaccine does not protect against all types of HPV that can cause cervical cancer, vaccinated people still need to have regular cervical screening.
Who should get a Cervical Screening Test
You are eligible for the test if you:
- are aged between 25 and 74
- have ever had any sexually contact
- are a woman or person with a cervix.
Find out more about whether you should get a Cervical Screening Test.
How the program works
Women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 74 years of age are invited to have a Cervical Screening Test every 5 years.
Cervical screening is done through your doctor, nurse or health worker. It’s likely to take just a few minutes.
Talk to your healthcare provider about your screening options, including the option of self-collection.
You may receive cervical screening reminders by SMS if we have your mobile number. If you would prefer to get reminders in the post, follow the instructions in the SMS or update your communication preferences in the National Cancer Screening Register Participant Portal.
Learn more about the screening process.
Manage your details
The National Cancer Screening Register (NCSR) enables a single electronic record for each person in Australia participating in cervical screening. The NCSR obtains your details from Medicare.
Manage your details and participation by calling the NCSR or visiting their website.
You can:
- update your address
- update your communication preferences
- nominate a healthcare provider
- nominate a pseudonym
- appoint a personal representative
- defer your next screening date
- request to cease or resume correspondence.
Important Information for people leaving a relationship or living with violence or abuse. Visit Services Australia (Medicare) and learn how to keep your information safe when leaving a relationship
National Cancer Screening Register
Policy framework
The program is jointly funded by the Australian Government and state and territory governments and services are delivered by health professionals.
We have a range of policies that help ensure the program is guided by best practice and a Quality Framework which ensures safety and high standards.
Program data
Program data is provided by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare:
- Cancer screening programs: quarterly data
- National Cervical Screening Program monitoring report 2023
Data on the Cervical Screening Test self-collection option is provided by the National Cancer Screening Register.
Update on cervical screening self-collection uptake
Contact
National Cervical Screening Program contact
Other screening programs
We also have national screening programs for bowel cancer and breast cancer.
Talk to your health care professional if you have any questions about screening for cancer.