Eligible Australians aged 50 to 74 are mailed a free test done at home every 2 years

Silhouette of two people gazing at a sunset over a distant landscape, leaning on a railing.

A simple at home test

This test is used to screen for Bowel Cancer. Screening can save lives by detecting the early signs of Bowel Cancer.

According to a 2017 study by Cancer Council Australia, screening for bowel cancer can reduce deaths from the disease by between 15% and 25%.  The program is for people aged 50 to 74 years because this group of the Australian population is at highest risk of bowel cancer. Age is the biggest risk factor for bowel cancer, so even healthy people should do the test.

The program is for both men and women who have no symptoms.


Delivered to your home

Your bowel test kit will be delivered to your home with instructions on how to do this simple test. If you are overdue or need a replacement kit, please contact the National Cancer Screening Register


What happens once you do the test?

Results are sent to you and your GP within 4 weeks.


For more information:

Australian Government Department of Health & the Aged


A guide to treating colds and flu
By Melanie Ivanhoe August 18, 2026
Why antibiotics don't work on cold and flu. A guide to treating upper respiratory infections.
Having high blood pressure can increase your chances of heart disease.
By Melanie Ivanhoe August 18, 2026
Do you know what your risk of having a heart attack or stroke is? Having a 20-minute Heart Health Check with your GP will help you better understand your risk. Most importantly, they can support you to lower this risk.
Nurse administering an injection to a patient's arm in a medical setting.
By Melanie Ivanhoe August 18, 2026
Book for your free flu vaccination
A girl with a bandage in her upper arm after receiving a vaccination. Gloved hands hold her arm.
July 13, 2026
Learn about childhood vaccinations serving Brisbane. Salisbury Medical Centre offers expert immunisation advice. Book your child's appointment today.
y
By Melanie Ivanhoe July 6, 2026
Adults 65 years are now able to access a new pneumococcal vaccine
Free RSV vaccination
By Melanie Ivanhoe May 18, 2026
A free RSV vaccination is now available for over 75s or for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people over 60.
RSV Vaccination is recommended for women from 28 weeks gestation
By Melanie Ivanhoe May 11, 2026
RSV vaccination is recommend for pregnant women from 28 weeks
2 to 5 year olds nasal spray vaccination for influenza
By Melanie Ivanhoe May 11, 2026
Now 2 to 17 year olds can now have flu protection using FluMist nasal spray
A woman smiling at the camera with her arms crossed in an office with colleagues in the background.
April 28, 2026
Salisbury Medical Centre offers instant drug screening for Brisbane, QLD. For fast, reliable results, call 07 3277 1621 now for trusted support.
By Melanie Ivanhoe March 18, 2026
A free over 75s health check can be done by your GP annually.