Published 04 Jul, 2022

All Australian states and territories have legislation mandating the notification of cancer diagnoses, and national cancer mortality data are available for the years 1968 to 2019.1 Projected estimates of annual cancer deaths are also available for the years 2020 and 2021.2,3

Charts
  • Notes
    Data sourced from Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2021. Australian Cancer Incidence and Mortality (ACIM) books. Canberra: AIHW. [Accessed February 2022]. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/cancer/cancer-data-in-australia/data
    Table caption
    Annual mortality, by sex, 1968 to 2019
  • Notes
    Data sourced from Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2021. Australian Cancer Incidence and Mortality (ACIM) books. Canberra: AIHW. [Accessed February 2022]. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/cancer/cancer-data-in-australia/data
    Table caption
    Age-standardised mortality rate, by sex, 1968 to 2019
  • Notes
    Data sourced from Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2021. Australian Cancer Incidence and Mortality (ACIM) books. Canberra: AIHW. [Accessed February 2022]. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/cancer/cancer-data-in-australia/data
    Table caption
    Age-specific mortality rate, by sex, 2019
  • Notes
    Data sourced from Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2021. Australian Cancer Incidence and Mortality (ACIM) books. Canberra: AIHW. [Accessed February 2022]. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/cancer/cancer-data-in-australia/data
    Table caption
    Age-specific mortality, by age group and sex, 1968 to 2019
  • Notes
    • Data sourced from AIHW
    • Data shown for 'Indigenous', 'Non-Indigenous', 'Not stated' and 'Total' are for NSW, Qld, WA, SA and NT only.
    • 'Total' age group includes counts of deaths with unknown age. However, deaths with unknown age were excluded from calculations of rates.
    • Rates are calculated using the sum of estimated resident populations at 30 June for 2015–2019. The rates given for age groups are age-specific rates per 100,000. The rates given for 'Total' are age-standardised rates per 100,000, standardised against the 2001 Australian Standard Population.
    • Rates are not published where there were fewer than 5 people.
    Table caption
    Age-standardised mortality, by Indigenous status, 2015-2019
  • Notes
    • Remoteness was classified according to the Australian Statistical Geography Standard (ASGS) Remoteness Areas.
    • The rates shown are age-standardised rates, standardised against the 2001 Australian Standard Population.
    Table caption
    Age-standardised mortality, by sex and remoteness, 2015–2019
  • Notes
    • SES area is classified according to the SEIFA quintile. Disaggregation by SEIFA quintile is based on Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2).
    • The rates shown are age-standardised rates, standardised against the 2001 Australian Standard Population.
    Table caption
    Age-standardised mortality, by sex and SES area, 2015–2019
  • Notes
    • Data sourced from International Agency for Research on Cancer GLOBOCAN 2019 database.
    • Rates are age-standardised to the WHO world standard population.
    Table caption
    Age standardised mortality estimates by country and cancer type

Cancer mortality data, as presented, refer to the number of deaths in a calendar year for which the underlying cause is cancer. This can be expressed as absolute numbers of deaths or as rates per 100,000 people. Mortality rates are often age-standardised to enable comparisons across different populations with different age profiles, noting that the likelihood of death from cancer generally increases with age.1 Age-specific rates are used to compare cancer mortality between different age groups.

Age-standardised and age-specific data are released each year by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) for individual cancer types and cancer groupings. These tumour types and groupings are classified by ICD-10 coding.1

International cancer mortality data are available through the Global Cancer Observatory (GCO) project; these data are age-standardised to the average age structure of the world population in 2020.4 International comparisons are made for this NCCI indicator for 15 selected developed countries (including Australia) across five continents. The selected comparison countries are Canada, Chile, France, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, Singapore, Sweden, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, United States of America and Uruguay.

All cancers combined (ICD-10 codes C00–C97, D45, D46, D47.1, D47.3–D47.5)

In 2019, there were 49,035 deaths from cancer in Australia (27,699 in males and 21,336 in females).1 In 2021, it is estimated that there will be 49,221 deaths (27,600 in males and 21,621 in females). In 2021, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from cancer by their 85th birthday was 1 in 6 (1 in 6 males and 1 in 7 females).2,3

In 2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was 156.0 deaths per 100,000 persons (192.8 for males and 126.1 for females).1 In 2021, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate was 149.1 deaths per 100,000 persons (182.0 for males and 122.3 for females). Age-specific mortality rates generally increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly evident in age groups of 60–64 years and older.2,3

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

Limited data are available on cancer mortality for Indigenous Australians, due to insufficient consistency of Indigenous status data in some jurisdictions. Mortality data judged to be of sufficient consistency are available from the AIHW for New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and the Northern Territory, with these five jurisdictions accounting for 88% of Australia’s Indigenous population.5The data provided here on cancer mortality rates for Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians are sourced from these five jurisdictions.

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous Australians (229.5 deaths per 100,000 persons) than non-Indigenous Australians (158.5 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised rate for the Indigenous population was 276.0 deaths per 100,000 for males and 193.6 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 197.2 deaths per 100,000 for males and 127.0 deaths per 100,000 for females.5

In 2012–2016, the age-specific mortality rate for all cancers combined increased with age for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.5 Higher age-specific mortality rates were observed among Indigenous males and females aged between 45 and 74 years compared to their non-Indigenous counterparts. Similar age-specific mortality rates were observed for Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians aged 85 years or over. This was mainly due to comparatively lower age-specific mortality rates among Indigenous males in this age group.5

Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate for all cancers combined was higher among persons living in Inner Regional, Outer Regional, and Remote and Very Remote areas than among persons living in Major Cities.6 A similar pattern was observed for males and females during this period.

During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (184.9 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (130.2 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6 A similar pattern across SES areas was observed for males and females during this period.

International comparisons

In 2020, the projected age-standardised mortality rate for Australian males and females for all cancers combined was in the third lowest in the estimated range for the selected comparison countries (for this international comparison, data are for ICD-10 codes C00–C97, excluding non-melanoma skin cancers (C44)). The age-standardised mortality rate for Australia was 82.2 per 100,000 – about 18% lower than the estimated global average for 2020 and the third lowest rate among the 15 selected countries.4 This is in contrast to Australia’s incidence rate of cancer, which typifies the higher rates generally seen in other high-income countries. In such countries, high rates of breast, bowel, and prostate cancer generally occur, and in Australia, very high rates of melanoma are recorded. These cancers generally have a good prognosis.4

Choose a cancer type below for further information:

In 2019, bladder cancer was the 14th leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It is estimated that it will become the 16th most common cause of death from cancer in 2021.2,3

In 2019, there were 1,050 deaths from bladder cancer in Australia (760 males and 290 females).1 In 2021, it is estimated that there will be 1,020 deaths (721 in males and 299 in females). In 2021, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from bladder cancer by their 85th birthday was 1 in 378 (1 in 262 in males and 1 in 690 in females).2,3

In 2019, the age–standardised mortality rate was 3.2 deaths per 100,000 persons (5.3 per 100,000 for males and 1.6 per 100,000 for females).1 In 2021, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate was 2.9 deaths per 100,000 persons (4.7 per 100,000 for males and 1.5 per 100,000 for females). Age-specific mortality rates generally increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly evident in age groups of 60–64 years and older.2,3

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous Australians (4.9 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (3.3 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 8.6 deaths per 100,000 for males and 2.5 deaths per 100,000 for females in the same period). The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 5.3 deaths per 100,000 for males and 1.7 deaths per 100,000 for females).5

Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (4.6 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined and lowest (3.2 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Major Cities.6

During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (3.9 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (2.7 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6

International comparisons

In 2020, the projected age-standardised mortality rate for bladder cancer in Australian males and females was on the lower end  of the estimated range when compared to the selected developed countries. Australian estimates of 1.8 deaths per 100,000 persons, compared to the highest rate from France with an estimated rate of 3.4 deaths per 100,000 persons.4

In 2019, brain cancer was the tenth leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It is estimated that it would become the ninth most common cause of death from cancer in 2021.2,3

In 2019, there were 1,470 deaths from brain cancer in Australia (889 males and 581 females).1 In 2021, it is estimated that there would be 1,528 deaths (935 males and 593 females). In 2021, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from brain cancer by their 85th birthday was 1 in 191 (1 in 155 males and 1 in 249 females).2,3

In 2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was 5.0 deaths per 100,000 persons (6.4 for males and 3.8 for females per 100,000).1 In 2021, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate was 5.0 deaths per 100,000 persons (6.4 for males and 3.7 per 100,000 for females). Cancer mortality rates generally increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly evident in age groups of 60–64 years and older.2 Age-specific mortality rates generally increased with age, peaking among males aged 75–79 years and among females aged 80–84 years.2,3

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was lower for Indigenous Australians (2.7 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (5.1 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 3.2 deaths for males and 2.3 deaths for females per 100,000. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 6.4 deaths for males and 3.8 deaths for females per 100,000).5

Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (5.5 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Inner Regional areas and lowest (4.2 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined.6

During the same period, there was little variation in the age-standardised mortality rate by SES area, ranging from 5.0 deaths per 100,000 persons in SES 1 areas to 5.3 deaths per 100,000 persons in SES 4 areas.6

International comparisons

International data are available for brain and central nervous system cancers combined (ICD-10 codes C70–72). In 2020, the projected age-standardised mortality rate for brain and central nervous system cancers in Australian males and females was high on the range of the 15 selected developed countries with an estimated rate of 3.8 deaths per 100,000 persons, the highest estimated rate of 5.0 deaths per 100,000 persons was Ireland, and the lowest was Japan (1.3 deaths per 100,000 persons).4

In 2019, breast cancer was the third leading cause of cancer death in Australia. During 2019, it was also the second most common cause of death from cancer among females. It is estimated that it would be the fifth most common cause of death from cancer in 2021 and remain the second most common cause of death from cancer among females, as in 2019.2,3

In 2019, there were 3,243 deaths from breast cancer in Australia (31 males and 3,212 females).1 In 2021, it is estimated that this increased to 3,138 deaths (36 males and 3,102 females). In 2021, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from breast cancer by their 85th birthday would be 1 in 104 (1 in 3,863 males and 1 in 52 females).2,3

In 2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was 10.6 deaths per 100,000 persons (0.2 for males and 19.8 for females per 100,000).1 In 2021, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate would be 9.8 deaths per 100,000 persons (0.2 for males and 18.3 for females per 100,000). Age-specific mortality rates generally increased with age for females, and for males were higher for those aged 70 years or over than for younger ages.2,3

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

In 2015−2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher among Indigenous females (21.2 deaths per 100,000 females) than among non-Indigenous females (19.4 deaths per 100,000 females).5

Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate for breast cancer in females only was highest (21.2 deaths per 100,000 females) in Inner Regional areas and lowest (19.0 deaths per 100,000 females) in Major Cities.6

During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (20.8 deaths per 100,000 females) in the lowest SES areas (SES 2) and lowest (17.6 deaths per 100,000 females) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6

International comparisons

In 2020, the estimated age-standardised mortality rate for breast cancer in Australian females was around the middle to low end of the range, ranked as the fourth-lowest among selected developed countries at 11.7 deaths per 100,000 females, the highest estimated rate was Uruguay with 20.1 deaths per 100,000 females.4

In 2016, cervical cancer was the 19th leading cause of cancer death among females in Australia. It is estimated that it remains the 19th most common cause of death from cancer among females in 2019.2,3

In 2016, there were 259 deaths from cervical cancer in Australia.1 In 2019, it is estimated that there will be 256 deaths. In 2019, it is estimated that the risk of a female dying from cervical cancer by her 85th birthday will be 1 in 494.2,3

In 2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was 1.9 deaths per 100,000 females.1 In 2019, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will be 1.8 deaths per 100,000 females. Age-specific mortality rates increased with age, peaking among females aged 80–84 years.2,3 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

In the period 2012−2016, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous females (7.5 deaths per 100,000 females) than for non-Indigenous females (1.8 deaths per 100,000 females).5

Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)

In the period 2013–2017, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (2.4 deaths per 100,000 females) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined and lowest (1.6 deaths per 100,000 females) in Major Cities.6

During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (2.5 deaths per 100,000 females) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (1.0 deaths per 100,000 females) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6

International comparisons

In 2018, the projected age-standardised mortality rate for cervical cancer in Australian females was low compared with estimates for selected developed countries, with similar rates in Canada and the United Kingdom. New Zealand was the only country to have a lower mortality rate.4 

In 2019, colorectal cancer was the second leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It is estimated that it would remain the second most common cause of death from cancer in 2021.2,3

In 2019, there were 5,255 deaths from colorectal cancer in Australia (2,856 males and 2,399 females).1 In 2021, it is estimated that there would be 5,295 deaths (2,836 males and 2,459 females). In 2021, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from colorectal cancer by their 85th birthday would be 1 in 64 (1 in 56 males and 1 in 74 females).2,3

In 2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was 16.5 deaths per 100,000 persons (19.9 for males and 13.6 for females per 100,000).1 In 2021, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate would be 16.0 deaths per 100,000 persons (18.9 for males and 13.4 for females per 100,000). Age-specific mortality rates increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly pronounced in age groups of 55–59 years and older.2,3

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous Australians (19.2 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (17.9 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 20.8 deaths per 100,000 for males and 17.5 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 21.4 deaths per 100,000 for males and 14.8 deaths per 100,000 for females.5

Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (21.2 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Outer Regional areas and lowest (16.7 per 100,000) in Major Cities.6

During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (20.6 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (14.8 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6

International comparisons

International data are available for colorectal and anal cancers combined (ICD-10 codes C18–21). In 2020, the estimated age-standardised mortality rate for colorectal and anal cancers combined for Australian males and females was around the lower-to-middle of the range among the 15 selected developed countries, with 8.9 deaths per 100,000 persons.4

In 2019, there were 1,525 deaths from colon cancer in Australia (768 males and 757 females).1 In 2021, it is estimated that there will be 1,220 deaths (617 males and 603 females). In 2021, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from colon cancer by their 85th birthday would be 1 in 315 (1 in 282 males and 1 in 358 females).2,3

In 2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was 4.7 deaths per 100,000 persons (5.4 for males and 4.1 for females per 100,000).1 In 2021, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate would be 3.6 deaths per 100,000 persons (4.1 for males and 3.1 for females per 100,000). Age-specific mortality rates increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly pronounced in age groups of 60–64 years and older.2,3

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

In 2015-2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was similar for Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. The age-standardised mortality rate for Indigenous Australians was 5.9 deaths per 100,000 persons (5.2 for males and 6.2 for females per 100,000). The age-standardised mortality rate for non-Indigenous Australians during this period was 5.4 deaths per 100,000 persons (6.3 for males and 4.6 for females per 100,000).5

Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest in Regional areas (7.0 and 6.9 deaths per 100,000 in Outer Regional and Inner Regional areas, respectively) and lowest (4.7 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Major Cities.6

During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (6.4 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (4.3 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6

International comparisons

These data were not available for C18 as such.

In 2019, there were 2,670 deaths from rectal cancer in Australia (1,548 males and 1,122 females).1 In 2021, it is estimated that there would be 3,106 deaths (1,746 males and 1,360 females). In 2021, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from rectal cancer by their 85th birthday would be 1 in 99 (1 in 86 males and 1 in 116 females).2,3

In 2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was 8.6 deaths per 100,000 persons (10.8 for males and 6.7 for females per 100,000).1 In 2021, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate would be 9.6 deaths per 100,000 persons (11.7 for males and 7.8 for females per 100,000). Age-specific mortality rates generally increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly pronounced in age groups of 55–59 years and older.2,3

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was lower for Indigenous Australians (8.7 deaths per 100,000 persons) than non-Indigenous Australians (8.9 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 11.6 deaths per 100,000 for males and 6.4 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 11.0 deaths for males and 7.1 deaths for females per 100,000.5

Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (9.5 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Major Cities and lowest (6.7 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined.6

During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (9.9 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (8.3 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6

International comparisons

These data were not available for C19-C20 as such.

In 2019, head and neck cancer was the 13th leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It is estimated that it would be the 15th most common cause of death from cancer in 2021.2,3

In 2019, there were 1,215 deaths from head and neck cancer in Australia (905 males and 310 females).1 In 2021, it is estimated that there would be 1,201 deaths (888 males and 313 females). In 2021, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from head and neck cancer by their 85th birthday would be  1 in 253 (1 in 166 males and 1 in 542 females).2,3

In 2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was 3.9 deaths per 100,000 persons (6.3 for males and 1.8 for females per 100,000).1 In 2021, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate would be 3.7 deaths per 100,000 persons (5.9 for males and 1.8 for females per 100,000). Age-specific mortality rates increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly pronounced in age groups of 55–59 years and older.2,3

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous Australians (11.4 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (3.9 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 17.1 deaths per 100,000 for males and 6.4 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 6.3 deaths per 100,000 for males and 1.8 deaths per 100,000 for females.5

Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (8.3 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined and lowest (3.4 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Major Cities.6

During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (5.5 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (2.4 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6

International comparisons

Comparable international data are not available for head and neck cancers (including lip).

In 2019, liver cancer was the seventh leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It is estimated that it is estimated that it would remain the seventh most common cause of death from cancer in 2021.2,3

In 2019, there were 2,187 deaths from liver cancer in Australia (1,448 males and 739 females).1 In 2021, it is estimated that there would be 2,424 deaths (1,599 males and 825 females). In 2021, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from liver cancer by their 85th birthday would be 1 in 120 (1 in 90 males and 1 in 183 females).2,3

In 2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was 7.1 deaths per 100,000 persons (9.9 for males and 4.4 for females per 100,000).1 In 2021, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate would be 7.4 deaths per 100,000 persons (10.4 for males and 4.8 for females per 100,000). Age-specific mortality rates generally increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly pronounced in age groups of 55–59 years and older.2,3

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous Australians (15.7 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (6.7 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 22.8 deaths per 100,000 for males and 10.2 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 9.5 deaths per 100,000 for males and 4.2 deaths per 100,000 for females.5

Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (9.6 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined and lowest (6.4 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Inner Regional areas.6

During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (8.5 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (5.4 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6

International comparisons

In 2020, the estimated age-standardised mortality rate for liver cancer in Australian males and females was in the middle of the range among 15 selected developed countries, with 4.2 deaths per 100,000 persons.4

In 2019, lung cancer was the leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It is estimated that it will remain the most common cause of death from cancer in 2021.2,3

In 2019, there were 8,739 deaths from lung cancer in Australia (5,139 males and 3,600 females).1 In 2021, it is estimated that this would decrease to 8,693 deaths (4,998 males and 3,695 females). In 2021, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from lung cancer by their 85th birthday would be 1 in 33 (1 in 29 males and 1 in 39 females).2,3

In 2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was 28.1 deaths per 100,000 persons (35.6 for males and 21.7 for females per 100,000).1 In 2021, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate would be 26.5 deaths per 100,000 persons (32.7 for males and 21.3 for females per 100,000). Age-specific mortality rates generally increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly pronounced in age groups of 55–59 years and older.2,3

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous Australians (59.3 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (28.8 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 72.8 deaths per 100,000 for males and 48.4 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 37.0 deaths per 100,000 for males and 22.0 deaths per 100,000 for females.5

Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (37.4 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined and lowest (27.1 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Major Cities.6

During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (38.4 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (19.2 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6

International comparisons

In 2020, the estimated age-standardised mortality rate for lung cancer in Australian males and females was the fourth-lowest among the 15 selected developed countries, wth 15.8 deaths per 100,000 persons.4

In 2019, melanoma skin cancer was the 11th leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It is estimated that it would remain the 11th most common cause of death from cancer in 2021.2,3

In 2019, there were 1,405 deaths from melanoma skin cancer in Australia (941 males and 464 females).1 In 2021, it is estimated that this would decrease to 1,315 deaths (843 males and 472 females). In 2021, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from melanoma skin cancer by their 85th birthday would be 1 in 246 (1 in 188 males and 1 in 356 females).2,3

In 2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was 4.5 deaths per 100,000 persons (6.6 for males and 2.8 for females per 100,000).1 In 2021, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate would decrease to 4.0 deaths per 100,000 persons (5.6 for males and 2.6 for females per 100,000). Age-specific mortality rates increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly pronounced in age groups of 55–59 years and older.2,3

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was lower for Indigenous Australians (2.2 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (5.1 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 3.0 deaths per 100,000 for males and 1.6 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 7.5 deaths per 100,000 for males and 3.1 deaths per 100,000 for females.5

Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (5.8 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Inner Regional areas and lowest in Major Cities (4.4 deaths per 100,000 persons).6

During the same period, there was little variation in the age-standardised mortality rate by SES area, ranging from 4.3 deaths per 100,000 persons in the highest SES areas (SES 4 and 5) to 5.2 deaths per 100,000 persons in lowest SES area (SES 1).6

International comparisons

In 2020, the estimated age-standardised mortality rate for melanoma of the skin for Australian males and females was among the highest in the world. Among the selected developed countries, only New Zealand had a higher rate of 4.7 deaths per 100,000 persons. Meanwhile the Australian rate was similar to that for the Netherlands for females (2.4 deaths per 100,000 persons, 2.3 deaths per 100,000 persons respectively).4

In 2019, there were 1,605 deaths from non-Hodgkin lymphoma in Australia (920 males and 685 females).1 In 2021, it is estimated that this would increase to 1,680 deaths (974 males and 706 females). In 2021, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from non-Hodgkin lymphoma by their 85th birthday would be 1 in 189 (1 in 158 males and 1 in 237 females).2,3

In 2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was 5.1 deaths per 100,000 persons (6.4 for males and 3.9 for females per 100,000).1 In 2021, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate would be 5.0 deaths per 100,000 persons (6.4 for males and 3.8 for females per 100,000). Age-specific mortality rates increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly pronounced in age groups of 60–64 years and older.2,3

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was slightly lower for Indigenous Australians (4.6 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (5.2 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 6.6 deaths per 100,000 for males and 3.2 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 6.7 deaths per 100,000 for males and 3.9 deaths per 100,000 for females.5

Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (5.6 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Inner Regional areas and lowest (4.2 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined.6

During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (5.5 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the second lowest SES areas (SES 2) and lowest (4.6 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6

International comparisons

International data are available for non-Hodgkin lymphoma and other and unspecified malignant neoplasms of lymphoid, hematopoietic and related tissue (ICD-10 codes C82–85 and C96). In 2020, the estimated the age-standardised mortality rate for non-Hodgkin lymphoma and other and unspecified malignant neoplasms of lymphoid, hematopoietic and related tissue in Australian males and females was in the middle of the range with 2.8 deaths per 100,000 persons, among the 15 selected developed countries.4 

In 2019, oesophageal cancer was the 12th leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It is estimated that it would become the 10th most common cause of death from cancer in 2021.2,3

In 2019, there were 1,392 deaths from oesophageal cancer in Australia (1,029 males and 363 females).1 In 2021, it is estimated that this will increase to 1,400 deaths (1,036 males and 364 females). In 2021, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from oesophageal cancer by their 85th birthday would be 1 in 210 (1 in 138 males and 1 in 448 females).2,3

In 2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was 4.5 deaths per 100,000 persons (7.1 for males and 2.1 for females per 100,000).1 In 2021, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will remain at 4.3 deaths per 100,000 persons (6.8 for males and 2.0 for females per 100,000). Age-specific mortality rates generally increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly pronounced in age groups of 50–54 years and older.2,3

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous Australians (7.4 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (4.5 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 12.5 deaths per 100,000 for males and 2.9 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 7.1 deaths per 100,000 for males and 2.1 deaths per 100,000 for females.5

Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest in Regional and Remote areas (5.6, 5.4 and 5.5 deaths per 100,000 persons in Inner Regional areas, Outer Regional areas, and Remote and Very Remote areas combined, respectively) and lowest (4.0 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Major Cities.6

During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (5.3 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (3.7 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 4 and SES 5).6

International comparisons

In 2020, the estimated age-standardised mortality rate for oesophageal cancer for Australian males and females was in the middle of the range among 15 selected developed countries, with 2.4 deaths per 100,000 persons.4

In 2019, ovarian cancer was the seventh leading cause of cancer death among females in Australia. In 2021, it is estimated that it would be the sixth most common cause of death from cancer among females.2,3

In 2019, there were 1,075 deaths from ovarian cancer in Australia.1 In 2021, it is estimated that there would  be 1,042 deaths. In 2021, it is estimated that the risk of a female dying from ovarian cancer by her 85th birthday would be 1 in 142.2,3

In 2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was 6.5 deaths per 100,000 females.1 In 2021, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate would be 6.0 deaths per 100,000 females. Age-specific mortality rates increased with age.2,3

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

In 2015−2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was lower for Indigenous females (5.2 deaths per 100,000) than for non-Indigenous females (6.3 deaths per 100,000).5

Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest in Regional areas and Major Cities (6.6 deaths per 100,000 females in Inner Regional areas and 6.3 deaths per 100,000 females in Outer Regional areas, and 6.2 deaths per 100,000 females in Major Cities) and lowest (4.5 deaths per 100,000 females) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined.6

During the same period, there was little variation in the age-standardised mortality rate by SES area, ranging from 6.0 deaths per 100,000 females in the second-highest SES areas (SES 4) to 6.7 deaths per 100,000 females in the middle  SES area (SES 3).

International comparisons

In 2020, the estimated age-standardised mortality rate for ovarian cancer in Australian females was in the middle of the range (3.8 deaths per 100,000 females) among 15 selected developed countries.4

In 2019, pancreatic cancer was the fourth leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It is estimated that it would remain the fourth most common cause of death from cancer in 2021.2,3

In 2019, there were 3,182 deaths from pancreatic cancer in Australia (1,686 males and 1,496 females).1 In 2021, it is estimated that this would increase to 3,391 deaths (1,789 males and 1,602 females). In 2021, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from pancreatic cancer by their 85th birthday would be 1 in 88 (1 in 81 males and 1 in 98 females).2,3

In 2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was 10.2 deaths per 100,000 persons (11.7 for males and 8.8 for females).1 In 2021, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate would be 10.3 deaths per 100,000 persons (11.8 for males and 9.0 for females per 100,000). Age-specific mortality rates increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly pronounced in age groups of 60–64 years and older.2,3

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous Australians (14.9 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (9.9 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 15.0 deaths per 100,000 for males and 14.5 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 11.4 deaths per 100,000 for males and 8.6 deaths per 100,000 for females.5

Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)

In the period 2015–2019, there was little variation in the age-standardised mortality rate by remoteness areas, ranging from 10.1 deaths per 100,000 persons in both Major Cities, 10.2 deaths per 100,000 persons in Inner Regional areas, to 10.8 deaths per 100,000 persons in Outer Regional areas, with the exception of 9.4 deaths per 100,000 persons in Remote and Very Remote areas combined.6

During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (11.2 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (9.3 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6

International comparisons

In 2020, the estimated age-standardised mortality rate for pancreatic cancer in Australian males was higher than for Australian females. Males were in the middle of the range of the15 selected developed countries with 6.5 deaths per 100,000. By comparison, Australian females had the second-lowest mortality rate among the selected developed countries, with 4.8 deaths per 100,000.4

In 2019, prostate cancer was the third most common cause of cancer death in Australia. It was the second most common cause of cancer death among males in 2019. It is estimated that it will be the fourth most common cause of cancer death in Australia and the second most common cause of male cancer death in 2021.2,3

In 2019, there were 3,582 deaths from prostate cancer in Australia.1 In 2021, it is estimated that this would decrease to 3,323 deaths. In 2021, it is estimated that the risk of a male dying from prostate cancer by his 85th birthday would be 1 in 55.2,3

In 2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was 24.9 deaths per 100,000 males.1 In 2021, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate would be 21.7 deaths per 100,000 males. Age-specific mortality rates increased with age.2,3

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

In the period 2015-2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous males (27.8 deaths per 100,000) than for non-Indigenous males (24.9 deaths per 100,000).5

Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (29.0 deaths per 100,000 males) in Outer Regional areas and lowest (23.1 deaths per 100,000 males) in Major Cities.6

During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest in the lower SES areas (27.0 and 26.8 deaths per 100,000 males in SES 1 areas and SES 2 areas, respectively) and lowest (21.6 deaths per 100,000 males) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6

International comparisons

In 2020, the estimated age-standardised mortality rate for prostate cancer in Australian males was in the middle of the range of the15 selected developed countries, with 10 deaths per 100,000 males.4

In 2019, cancer of unknown primary site was the fifth leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It is estimated that it will be the sixth most common cause of death from cancer in 2021.2,3

In 2019, there were 2,874 deaths from cancer of unknown primary site in Australia (1,597 males and 1,277 females).1 In 2021, it is estimated that this will decrease to 2,556 deaths (1,390 males and 1,166 females). In 2021, it is estimated that the risk of an individual dying from cancer of unknown primary site by their 85th birthday will be 1 in 138 (1 in 119 males and 1 in 165 females).2,3

In 2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was 8.9 deaths per 100,000 persons (11.1 for males and 7.1 for females).1 In 2021, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will decrease to 7.5 deaths per 100,000 persons (9.2 for males and 6.1 for females). Age-specific mortality rates increased with age, with this trend being more pronounced in males than females, and particularly evident in age groups of 60–64 years and older.2,3

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous Australians (15.6 deaths per 100,000 persons) than for non-Indigenous Australians (9.0 deaths per 100,000 persons). The age-standardised mortality rate for the Indigenous population was 17.7 deaths per 100,000 for males and 13.7 deaths per 100,000 for females. The age-standardised mortality rate for the non-Indigenous population during the same period was 11.0 deaths per 100,000 for males and 7.2 deaths per 100,000 for females.5

Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)

In the period 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (11.9 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Remote and Very Remote areas combined and lowest (8.1 deaths per 100,000 persons) in Major Cities.6

During the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate was highest (11.0 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the lowest SES areas (SES 1) and lowest (6.6 deaths per 100,000 persons) in the highest SES areas (SES 5).6

International comparisons

Comparable international data are not available for cancers of unknown primary site.

In 2019, uterine cancer was the 11th leading cause of cancer death among females in Australia. It is estimated that it will be the 9th most common cause of death from cancer among females in 2021.2,3

In 2019, there were 640 deaths from uterine cancer in Australia.1 In 2021, it is estimated that this will increase to 662 deaths. In 2021, it is estimated that the risk of a female dying from uterine cancer by her 85th birthday will be 1 in 226.2,3

In 2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was 3.9 deaths per 100,000 females.1 In 2021, it is estimated that the age-standardised mortality rate will be 3.8 deaths per 100,000 females. Age-specific mortality rates generally increased with age.2,3

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

In the period 2015-2019, the age-standardised mortality rate was higher for Indigenous females (4.7 deaths per 100,000) than for non-Indigenous females (3.4 per 100,000).5

Remoteness and socioeconomic status (SES)

In the period 2015–2019, there was little variation in the age-standardised mortality rate by Remoteness area, ranging from 3.3 deaths per 100,000 females in each Inner Regional areas, 3.4 deaths per 100,000 females in Major Cities and 3.6 deaths per 100,000 females in Outer Regional areas to 3.9 deaths per 100,000 females in Remote and Very Remote areas combined.6

During the same period, there was little variation in the age-standardised mortality rate by SES area, ranging from 3.1 deaths per 100,000 females in the highest SES areas (SES 5) to 3.9 deaths per 100,000 females in the lowest SES areas (SES 1).6

International comparisons

International data estimates are available for uterine cancer for the ICD-10 code C54 only. In 2020, the estimated age-standardised mortality rate for uterine cancer in Australian females was in the middle of the range among selected developed countries, with 1.9 deaths per 100,000 females.4

Cancer mortality refers to the number of deaths for which the underlying cause was a primary cancer, during a specified time period (usually one year). The major source of cancer mortality data is the National Mortality Database (NMD), which is compiled by the AIHW from data provided by the state and territory Registries of Births, Deaths and Marriages and the National Coronial Information System, and coded by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Unlike the incidence data, the mortality data include basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas of the skin.

All Australian states and territories have legislation that makes cancer a notifiable disease. Various designated bodies, i.e., institutions such as hospitals, pathology laboratories and registries of births, deaths and marriages, are required to report cancer cases and deaths to their jurisdictional cancer registries.

Deaths registered in 2017 and earlier are based on the final version of cause of death data. Deaths registered in 2018 are based on the revised version and deaths registered in 2019 are based on the preliminary version. Revised and preliminary versions are subject to further revision by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

For colorectal cancer, unlike the incidence data, the mortality data include unspecified part of the intestinal tract (ICD-10 code: C26.0) in addition to the colorectal part (ICD-10 codes: C18–C20) to gain the best estimates of deaths.

For all cancers combined, cancers are coded in the ICD-10 as C00–C97, D45, D46, D47.1 and D47.3–D47.5. Incidence excludes those C44 codes that indicate a basal or squamous cell carcinoma of the skin. Unlike incidence data, mortality data include common non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). These are grouped with rare NMSC in ICD-10 code C44. It is not possible to split C44 into common NMSC and rare NMSC.

Methodology

Remoteness

The 2011, the Australian Statistical Geography Standard (ASGS) was used to allocate participants to a remoteness area based on their area of usual residence.

For 2015-2019 data the remoteness areas are classified according to the 2016 Australian Statistical Geography Standard (ASGS) Remoteness Areas. Not all remoteness areas are represented in all jurisdictions. Disaggregation of incidence by remoteness area is based on Statistical Local Area, Level 1 (SA1) of usual residence at time of diagnosis where available, and Statistical Local Area, Level 2 (SA2) where SA1 was not available. Disaggregation of mortality by remoteness area is based on Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) of usual residence at time of death. The accuracy of these classifications decreases over time due to changes in infrastructure within SA2 boundaries since 2016.

Socioeconomic status

The Socio-Economic Indexes for Areas (SEIFA) 2011 Index of Relative Socio-Economic Disadvantage (IRSD) was used to allocate participants to a SES quintile based on their area of usual residence.

Age standardisation

Australian mortality data are age-standardised to the Australian population as at 30 June 2001 and are expressed per 100,000 population.

International mortality data are age-standardised to the World standard population, which generally give appreciably lower rates than standardisation to the Australian population due to differences in age weightings.

International data

The GCO contains cancer incidence and mortality from cancer registries around the world. Various methodologies are applied to the GCO data differing by country and data availability. Mortality rates for Australia (in relation to international data), Canada, Chile, France, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, Sweden, the Netherlands, United Kingdom, United States of America and Uruguay were observed and projected to 2020. Mortality rates for Singapore the most recently observed national mortality rates for the country and then applied to the 2020 population.4 Additional details on methodology and data availability can be found: https://gco.iarc.fr/today/data-sources-methods

Data presented for Korea is inclusive of the Republic of Korea only.

Data sources

  • Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) 2021. Australian Cancer Incidence and Mortality (ACIM) books 2019. Canberra: AIHW.
  • Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) 2021. GRIM (General Record of Incidence of Mortality) books 2019: All neoplasms. Canberra: AIHW.
  • Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2021. Cancer in Australia 2021. Cat. No. CAN 144. Canberra: AIHW.
  • Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2021. National Mortality Database. Canberra: AIHW.
  • International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer, World Health Organization. https://gco.iarc.fr/today/home

Data caveat

Reliable national data on cancer mortality for Indigenous Australians are not available nationally. All state and territory cancer registries collect information on Indigenous status; however, in some jurisdictions the consistency of Indigenous status data is regarded as insufficient for inclusion in national mortality analyses. Information on Indigenous status is considered to be sufficiently consistent for inclusion for New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and the Northern Territory. Data for these five jurisdictions therefore were used to examine the mortality from cancer by Indigenous status (i.e., Indigenous and non-Indigenous).5

Activity in this area

Data

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2018. Australian Cancer Incidence and Mortality (ACIM) books. [Accessed February 2022]; https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/cancer/cancer-data-in-australia/data

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2019. General Record of Incidence of Mortality (GRIM). Accessed February 2022]; https://data.gov.au/data/dataset/grim-books

References

  1. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2021. Australian Cancer Incidence and Mortality (ACIM) books. Canberra: AIHW. [Accessed February 2022]; https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/cancer/cancer-data-in-australia/data
  2. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2021. Cancer in Australia 2021. Cancer series no.133. Cat. no. CAN 144. Canberra: AIHW.
  3. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2021. Cancer data in Australia. Cat. no. CAN 122. Canberra: AIHW. [Accessed January 2021] https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/cancer/cancer-data-in-australia
  4. Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2018). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. [Accessed February 2022]; https://gco.iarc.fr/today
  5. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2018. Cancer in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of Australia. Cat. no. CAN 109. Canberra: AIHW. [Accessed October 2019]; https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/cancer/cancer-in-indigenous-australians
  6. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, National Mortality Database. [Accessed February 2022]; https://www.aihw.gov.au/about-our-data/our-data-collections/national-mortality-database

Summary

Cancer mortality in Australia is increasing overall

From 1968 to 2019, cancer mortality in Australia increased from 17,032 deaths to 49,035 deaths per year.

Cancer mortality rates are decreasing for most cancer types

From 1968 to 2019, age-standardised mortality rates decreased for all cancers combined, and for most cancer types, with exceptions including brain, liver and rectal cancer, and lung cancer in females.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have higher mortality rates for some cancers

Indigenous Australians experienced higher age-standardised mortality rates than non-Indigenous persons for cancers of the bladder, breast in females, cervix, head and neck, liver, lung, oesophagus, pancreas, uterus, and unknown primary site.

Disparities in cancer mortality in remote areas

In 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate for all cancers combined was highest in Remote and Very Remote areas combined and lowest in Major Cities, (180.6 compared with 150.7 deaths per 100,000 persons).

Disparities in cancer mortality in lower SES areas

In 2015–2019, the age-standardised mortality rate for all cancers combined was highest in the lowest SES areas (SES1 quintile, 184.9 deaths per 100,000 persons compared with the highest SES area (SES 5 quintile, 130.2 deaths per 100,000 persons).

Australia's cancer mortality rate is lower than the estimated global average

The projected age-standardised cancer mortality rate in Australia was about 18% lower than the estimated global rate for 2020.

In this Measure

Topics

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Deaths
Mortality

Related measures

Cancer incidence
Mortality-to-incidence ratio
Conditional 5-year relative survival
5-year relative survival from diagnosis
10-year relative survival
Five-year prevalence