The Australian Sports Commission (ASC) is supporting Cancer Council’s awareness efforts in collaboration with the Your Sporting Summer campaign. The ASC is encouraging Australians to enjoy sport during the warmer months but reminding them to keep sun safety top of mind. This is part of a growing commitment as the ASC continues promote safer sporting environments.

National Skin Cancer Action Week, from 17 to 23 November, highlights that sun protection is essential for everyone involved in outdoor sports—athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers and spectators alike. With Australia experiencing some of the highest skin cancer rates globally, the ASC is eager to foster UV-safe sporting environments and build a strong sun protection culture.

The ASC and the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) back these efforts through its Sun Safe Position Statement, which reinforces the increased risk of sunburn, skin damage and skin cancer from prolonged UV exposure.

AIS Chief Medical Officer Dr David Hughes AM emphasises the importance of a SunSmart  approach.

“Australia has the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, and athletes participating in outdoor sports may be at greater risk due to high cumulative sun exposure, inadequate use of sun protection, and low skin cancer awareness,” Dr Hughes explained.

“It really comes down to following the ‘Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, and Slide’ behaviours and ensuring our sports have the information they need to develop a positive sun protection culture.”

Cancer Council NSW’s Skin Cancer Prevention Manager Liz King reiterated the importance of sun safe sporting environments, in particular for young Australians.

“Every organisation which conducts sport and recreation events has a responsibility to ensure a safe environment for competitors, officials and spectators. This includes promoting a sun safe culture, by supporting their sporting communities in their sun safety leadership and practices” Ms King said.

“Children and adolescence are particularly at risk of skin damage because exposure to UV radiation during these formative years can significantly increase the risk of developing skin cancer later in life. ”The ASC encourages all sporting groups and individuals to integrate sun safe practices into their routines this summer, supporting a healthier, more sun-aware sporting community.

For more information and sun safety tips, visit Cancer Council’s National Skin Cancer Action Week page here.

Visit the ASC’s Get Involved page to find your summer sport.