I do appreciate the opportunity to speak on such an important health issue in regional Western Australia—one that is far bigger than politics. Next month, from 15 to 22 November, National Skin Cancer Action Week will be held, offering all of us the chance to get checked for melanoma and acknowledge the serious work and research being done by Australian doctors and researchers. Sadly, Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. It is estimated that more than 17,000 Australians are diagnosed with melanoma each year. Of that, over 1,450 cases are diagnosed in Western Australia, making skin cancer our most common cancer. It is further estimated that one in 17 Australians will be diagnosed by the time they are 85 years of age.

As regional Western Australians we are blessed with beautiful weather just about all year round. The western Pilbara is the sunniest region in Australia, exceeding 10 hours of sunshine daily, and the Mid West is close behind. As much as we all love the sun and love the weather that comes with living in many parts of regional Western Australia, these conditions come with serious risks to our skin and increase the real threat of skin cancer. The sun's harmful UV rays do not discriminate, either. While males tend to have higher rates of melanoma, 50 out of 100,000 females will be diagnosed with melanoma this year.

We've all grown up with that simple message: slip, slop slap. What a great advertising campaign. Slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen and slap on a wide-brimmed hat. It is that simple. Even just a few minutes in the sun can cause significant damage. Alongside preventing our exposure to UV rays, early detection remains critical in reducing the impact of skin cancer. It is important to get to know your skin and what is normal for you. Develop a regular habit of checking your skin for new spots and changes to existing freckles or moles. This includes areas that are not exposed to the sun, such as the soles of your feet, between your fingers and toes, and under your nails. The easiest way to detect melanoma is by remembering ABCDE. A is for asymmetry, B is for border, C is for colour, D is for diameter and E is for evolving. Quite frankly, early detection saves lives.

I want to especially acknowledge the work of our Australian researchers. Just last Friday on the ABC's 7.30, we saw further evidence of the hard work they are doing. They are really cutting through in this space. The results from an Australian led phase 3 human trial of a cancer vaccine has revealed a 42 per cent reduction in the risk of melanoma reoccurrence. Led by Professor Georgina Long, this is a significant development in the fight against what has been described as Australia's cancer. Sadly, this vaccine was far too late for my late husband, Colyn, who died from melanoma over 20 years ago.

From our researchers down to our nurses and doctors in cancer clinics throughout regional Western Australia, I've seen firsthand the work that they are doing to reduce the impact of skin cancer and the support they offer families and patients battling skin cancer. They deserve our thanks and help more than anyone. I especially recognise the work of organisations and charities that support the work of our researchers, doctors and families. I also recognise all those who've donated to these charities, who've taken part in a Relay for Life or who've simply given support to the families and victims of skin cancer. My love and support go out to families and Australians who have been affected by this horrible cancer.

As a parliament and as members, we have the responsibility to continue to invest in prevention campaigns, medical research technologies and targeting when it comes to skin cancer. As we approach National Skin Cancer Action Week, I acknowledge and encourage all to take every opportunity to protect their skin. If you can, donate to a cancer charity. Reach out to friends or family who have experienced the hurt of skin cancer and understand the importance of early detection. My final message is to younger Australians. At the moment, it may seem fashionable to be tanned, but being sun smart is far more important and could save your life. I thank the House.