A hand holding a free home test kit from the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.

The kit contains everything you need to do the test in the privacy of your home.

08 July 2024

Canberrans aged 45 to 49 can now order a free bowel cancer screening test.

Previously available to those aged 50 to 74, the free kit is a simple test that can save your life.

Early detection

While checking your poo sounds a bit uncomfortable, it really is serious business.

Bowel cancer ranks as the second-deadliest cancer in Australia. It can also develop without obvious symptoms.

But here’s the good news – more than 90 per cent of bowel cancers can be successfully treated when detected early.

Free kits for those aged 45+

As of 1 July 2024, the eligible age for a free bowel cancer screening kit has been lowered to 45.

This means if you’re aged 45 to 49, you too can request a free kit .

People aged 50 to 74 will continue to get their free kit in the mail every two years.

Quick, easy and private

The kit contains everything you need to do the test in the privacy of your own home.

People who have done it have mentioned how pleasantly surprised they are by how quick and easy it is to do.

You can order your kit here.

Next steps

If your kit hasn’t arrived as expected or it’s damaged, misplaced or expired, call the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program on 1800 627 701 or fill out the form online.

You can also ask your doctor for a kit.

You will automatically receive your next test kit in the mail every two years after your last screening test is completed.

People with signs, symptoms, or a family history of bowel cancer, should talk with a doctor before screening with the program.

More information

Order your free bowel test kit today.

Learn more about the National Bowel Cancer Screening program on the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care website


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