Consultation on the updated Population Based Screening Framework

Overview

Australia’s Population Based Screening Framework (the framework) is a joint Commonwealth and state and territory document that guides decisions about national screening programs. It sets out criteria to assess whether screening for particular conditions should be introduced and outlines the key requirements for the implementation and ongoing management of screening programs. The framework is being updated to reflect contemporary screening approaches and technologies including targeted and risk-stratified screening and the use of genomic testing. The updated framework will also include a process for assessing new screening proposals and guidance for supporting changes to existing programs. 

This survey seeks feedback on the draft updated Population Based Screening Framework:

Draft Updated Population Based Screening Framework

More information on the update can be found here:

Further Information on Framework Update

What is the purpose of this survey? 

The consultation survey aims to understand whether the updated framework is clear and fit-for-purpose. Feedback received will be considered in finalising the updated framework.

What type of questions are in this survey?  

To answer the questions in the survey, you will need to have reviewed the updated framework. The survey asks about the clarity and adequacy of the updated framework. It also invites you to provide comment on the key components of the updated framework. Most questions are optional. If you do not have feedback on a particular section, you may skip it and continue to the next question. This means that you can provide feedback on each section of the framework, or focus only on those sections that are most important to you. 

How long will the survey take? 

The survey should take no more than 15 minutes to complete, after you have read the draft updated framework.

How long will the survey be open for? 

The survey will be open from 16 November until 11 December 2026. This timeframe supports timely delivery of the updated framework to the relevant executive committees and decision-makers. 

Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate requests for extensions. 

Who can complete this survey? 

Feedback is welcome from everyone. This may include consumers or members of the general public, health professionals, peak bodies, researchers, government and non-government organisations and any other interested stakeholders or individuals. 

How will survey responses be used? 

Feedback from this consultation process will be independently analysed by Nous Group and presented to the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing (the Department). A summary of consultation outcomes and feedback will be shared with the governance committees overseeing the update. A public consultation summary report will also be published on the Department’s website, outlining the key themes and feedback received. The summary report will not include the names of any people who have responded to the survey.

Privacy and your personal information

Your personal information is protected by law, including under the Privacy Act 1988. The way we will use and protect your personal information is outlined in our Privacy Collection Notice:

Privacy Collection Notice