Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. Two in three Australians will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer by age 70, and early detection saves lives. This guide helps you identify warning signs and know when to book a skin check with your GP.
The ABCDE Rule for Melanoma
Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, but it is also highly treatable when caught early. Use the ABCDE rule to check your moles:
- A — Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other
- B — Border: Irregular, ragged, notched or blurred edges
- C — Colour: Shades of brown, black, pink, red, white or blue within the same mole
- D — Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
- E — Evolving: Any change in size, shape, colour, or elevation over weeks or months
If a mole meets any of these criteria, book a skin check with your GP this week. Do not wait.
Signs of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are more common than melanoma but usually less dangerous. Watch for:
- A sore that does not heal within 4 weeks
- A shiny pink, red, or pearly bump — often on the face, ears, or neck
- A rough, scaly red patch that may crust or bleed
- A wart-like growth or thickened area of skin
- Any persistent skin change in a sun-exposed area
Who Is at Highest Risk?
- Fair skin that burns easily
- History of sunburns — especially childhood blistering sunburns
- Many moles (50+) or atypical moles
- Family history of melanoma
- Previous skin cancer
- Outdoor occupation or frequent outdoor activity
- Immunosuppression (e.g. transplant recipients)
- Age 40 and over
What Happens During a Skin Check?
A skin check at a Family Doctor clinic is a 15–30 minute consultation where your GP examines your entire skin surface, including areas like your scalp, between your toes, and your back. For suspicious lesions, your GP uses a dermatoscope (a magnifying device with polarised light) to see deeper patterns invisible to the naked eye.
If your GP finds anything concerning, they will either:
- Photograph and monitor the lesion at a follow-up visit in 3–6 months
- Remove the lesion under local anaesthetic (a simple biopsy or excision done in clinic the same day)
- Refer you to a dermatologist for specialist assessment
How Often Should You Have a Skin Check?
For most Australians, an annual skin check is appropriate. Those at higher risk (personal or family history of skin cancer, fair skin, many moles) should be checked every 6 months. Monthly self-checks between GP visits help catch changes early.
Is a Skin Check Bulk Billed?
At many Family Doctor clinics, skin checks are bulk billed for eligible patients. Biopsies and minor excisions are also Medicare-rebatable. See our bulk billing page for confirmed bulk-billing clinics, or contact your nearest clinic to confirm their skin check billing.
Family Doctor also operates DrSkinCheck, a dedicated skin cancer screening service with GPs specialising in dermoscopy and early detection.
Find a Family Doctor Clinic Near You
Do not put off a suspicious mole or skin change. Early diagnosis is the single biggest factor in skin cancer survival.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get skin cancer results?
If your GP takes a biopsy, pathology results typically come back in 3–7 days. Your GP will contact you to discuss the result and any next steps.
Does a skin check hurt?
No. A routine skin check is a visual examination only. If your GP decides to biopsy a lesion, they will numb the area with local anaesthetic before taking a small sample — you will feel a brief pinprick for the injection, then nothing during the procedure.
Can I see a dermatologist directly without a GP?
You can, but Medicare rebates for dermatologist consultations require a GP referral. Most skin cancer concerns can be assessed and managed entirely at a GP-level skin check — only complex cases need specialist dermatology input.
What should I wear to a skin check?
Clothes that are easy to remove. You will undress to your underwear so your GP can examine your whole skin surface. Bring a list of moles or spots you are worried about, or take photos on your phone to show the GP.