Breast Cancer Advocates Call for $6.9 Million to Improve Metastatic Cancer Data
13 Oct 2026
An estimated 20,950 Australians were living with metastatic breast cancer in 2025, according to the first national estimate. This was more than twice previous estimates and highlighted gaps in how cancer cases are recorded and monitored.
Jessica Giampetrone, a 37-year-old Melbourne mother diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022, is among those affected. She says people living with metastatic breast cancer should not have to fight to be recognised in national health data.
Metastatic breast cancer occurs when cancer spreads beyond the breast to other parts of the body. Although treatment can help manage the disease, it cannot currently be cured.
Why ongoing cancer data matters
Australia's first national estimate was an important step towards understanding how many people live with metastatic breast cancer. However, the country still lacks consistent, ongoing data collection to track cancer stage, recurrence and progression over time.
Without reliable information, researchers and health services may find it harder to understand patients' needs, plan services and improve support.
BCNA's Director of Policy, Advocacy and Support Services, Vicki Durston, says continued investment is needed to ensure people with metastatic breast cancer remain visible in national planning.
Progress towards a national data system
In 2024, the Australian Prime Minister announced $1.5 million to support better collection of cancer stage and recurrence information. The funding also supported the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare in establishing the Australian Cancer Data Alliance.
This initiative brought together governments, cancer registries, researchers and people with lived experience to improve how cancer information is collected and shared.
BCNA says further investment is needed to make metastatic breast cancer data collection a lasting part of Australia's national cancer data system.
Proposed funding and expected benefits
The organisation is seeking $6.913 million in Commonwealth funding over four years to help establish a national platform for more consistent cancer data collection and reporting.
The proposed approach could also involve $11.576 million in state and territory funding over 10 years.
A stronger national system could benefit people affected by many types of cancer by supporting research, healthcare planning and service delivery.
Ensuring patients remain visible
BCNA says recording the number of people living with metastatic breast cancer once is not enough. Regular updates are needed to help ensure their experiences and healthcare needs are considered in research, policy and service planning.
The organisation is calling on the Australian Government to continue investing in cancer data reform so people living with metastatic breast cancer are recognised and supported over time.
Breast Cancer Advocates Call for $6.9 Million to Improve Metastatic Cancer Data
Source: Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA)