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Posted by David Sexton
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15 May, 2026
A MAJOR new national effort to eliminate deaths from prostate cancer has been launched at Parliament House in Canberra this week.
Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) formally announced the establishment of a Committee for the Elimination of Prostate Cancer, to be chaired by former deputy PM and treasurer, Wayne Swan.
Image: Committee for the Elimination of Prostate Cancer
The committee aims to develop the nation’s first coordinated roadmap to end avoidable deaths from Australia’s most-commonly diagnosed cancer.
The launch featured a striking awareness truck, positioned in front of Parliament House, carrying the message: “One small test for man, one giant leap for mankind.”
Special envoy for men’s health, Dan Repacholi MP, said the initiative represents an important step forward in improving health outcomes for Australian men.
“Too many Australian men are still dying from prostate cancer when early detection can save lives. This committee is about bringing focus, coordination, and urgency to that challenge,” Mr Repacholi said.
“It’s a critical step toward ensuring men across the country have access to the information, testing, and care they need.”
Committee chair Wayne Swan said the initiative reflected both a national priority and a deeply personal mission.
“I’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact of prostate cancer, both in losing my father and facing my own diagnosis. We know that early detection saves lives — but we are not doing enough to reach men at risk.
“This committee is about changing that, once and for all.”
Adjunct Associate Professor Steve Callister AM, chairman of PCFA, said the committee marked “a pivotal moment” in the national response to prostate cancer.
“Too many men are still being diagnosed too late. “By bringing together expertise across research, policy, and clinical care, this Committee will help chart a clear path toward zero deaths,” Professor Callister said.
The Committee for the Elimination of Prostate Cancer is to work to align national efforts across early detection, research, and treatment — ensuring all Australian men have a fair chance of survival, regardless of where they live.
