14 April 2025

Australia is on track to become the first country in the world to introduce national clinical guidelines for the early detection of prostate cancer, with the release today of new 2025 Draft Guidelines for public comment.

Following two years of rigorous analysis by leading medical and scientific experts, the new draft guidelines mark a major step forward in saving lives through early detection—and now, Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) is urging Australians to have their say.

The consultation period will run for six weeks, closing on Friday, May 25, and the final guidelines are expected to be approved by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) in August.

Key changes in the 2025 draft guidelines include:

  • A world-first recommendation to offer a baseline PSA test to interested men at age 40.
  • A strong recommendation for GPs to initiate conversations about PSA testing and offer two-yearly testing to all men aged 50–69.
  • A reversal of the 2016 stance against testing men over 70, recommending testing based on clinical assessment.
  • Earlier and more frequent testing for men at higher risk, including those with a family history or of sub-Saharan ancestry, starting at age 40.
  • A recommendation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men to be tested every two years from age 40, recognising their significantly higher mortality risk.
  • Reinforcement that digital rectal examinations are no longer recommended in primary care, removing a major barrier to testing for many men.

Professor Jeff Dunn AO, Chair of the Guidelines Steering Committee and PCFA Chief of Mission and Head of Research, said the guidelines could drive down mortality rates significantly.

“We now have the evidence to recommend a new approach to PSA testing — one that is systematic, risk-based, and proactive. If we get this right, we will save lives,” said Professor Dunn. 

“These guidelines are about giving men the best possible chance of surviving prostate cancer through earlier detection and intervention.”

Adjunct Professor Peter Heathcote, Chair of the Expert Advisory Panel and PCFA National Director, said the draft represents a watershed moment in men’s health.

“These recommendations reflect international best practice and take us one step closer to a nationally organised approach to early detection. This will move us away from an inconsistent, discretionary model to one that gives men and their doctors clear, evidence-based advice.”

Anne Savage, PCFA Chief Executive Officer, said all input received during the consultation would help shape the final draft for approval of the National Health and Medical Research Council later this year. 

“We are calling on individuals, experts, and interest groups around the country to provide feedback. Every voice matters — from general practitioners to patients, partners, family members and carers. This is an unprecedented opportunity for Australia to accelerate the early detection of prostate cancer, standing shoulder to shoulder with men and families towards our goal of zero deaths.”

Each year more than 26,000 Australian men are diagnosed with prostate cancer and nearly 4,000 men will die from the disease. Without early detection, survival outcomes are drastically reduced.

The 2025 Guidelines for the Early Detection of Prostate Cancer will replace the 2016 Clinical Guidelines for PSA Testing, now considered outdated. They lay the foundation for a national approach that can significantly reduce prostate cancer deaths within five years, if backed by public education and investment.

Public consultation on the 2025 Draft Guidelines runs from April 14 to May 25, 2025.
To read the draft and make a submission, visit: pcfa.org.au/psa-guidelines-review.