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Facts and Stats

The Hunter Melanoma Foundation is on a mission to defeat melanoma through education and awareness about prevention and early detection.

Why we help

Together, we can change the future of melanoma

At HMF, we’re here to help you. We’re a local organisation supporting local people, and our mission is to defeat melanoma.

Research into the causes, prevention, early detection, and treatment of melanoma has played a crucial role in improving outcomes for patients. Since 1988, the Hunter Melanoma Foundation has proudly supported local research efforts aimed at advancing knowledge, enhancing treatment options, and ultimately saving lives.

Together, through education, support, and research, we can change the future of melanoma.

Australia has the highest incidence of melanoma in the world
In the 1980's the Hunter Region had the highest incidence of melanoma in Australia. Port Stephens (13th), Lake Macquarie (16th), Cessnock (21st) and Newcastle (25th) are all in the top 25 melanoma hotspots

(by Local Government Area) in NSW (Cancer Institute NSW published 5/11/2024)

Melanoma is the 2nd most diagnosed cancer
in the Hunter New England Local Health District

(February 2024 – Cancer Institute NSW)

Melanoma is the most common cancer
in the 20-39 age group
While in the overall Australian population melanoma ranks as the third most common cancer.
2 in 3
Australians will develop some form of skin cancer during their lifetime
Risk factors for Melanoma include; a large number of moles; fair skin; a tendency to sunburn easily; family history of Melanoma; excessive sun exposure under the age of 15. Solariums, sun lamps & sun beds emit harmful UV rays that damage your skin and can cause melanoma.
1 person dies every 6 hours from melanoma

Join us in the fight against melanoma

With your help, over the past 35+ years, we’ve been working to defeat melanoma—and we know the work we’re doing is making a real difference. But there’s still much more to do.

In the Hunter New England Local Health District, melanoma is now the second most diagnosed cancer (Cancer Institute NSW, February 2024), underscoring the urgent need for continued awareness, early detection, and prevention.

Nationally, melanoma remains the most common cancer among Australians aged 20 to 39. Your donation and ongoing support allow us to continue this life-saving work—funding education programs, supporting patients, and advancing research to reduce the impact of melanoma in our community.

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