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September 4 2025

ADDRI Commentary on Mesothelioma in Australia 2024

The AIHW’s Mesothelioma in Australia 2024 report—released on 29 August 2025—offers  crucial data on the state of mesothelioma in this country, drawing on the Australian Mesothelioma Registry, National Mortality Database, and Cancer Database.

New diagnoses remain distressingly high, with 684 Australians diagnosed in 2024—an average of two people each day. The average age at diagnosis was 77, with men continuing to be diagnosed at higher rates than women across all age groups.

But women continue to be diagnosed at similar rates. Within the ADDRI Support Service – while recognising our smaller sample size –one in three of our mesothelioma patients are women, with an average age at diagnosis of just 66. This younger age profile has important implications for treatment options, care needs, and long-term management.

Deaths continue at a significant rate, with 688 mesothelioma-related deaths recorded in 2023—around 1.9 deaths per 100,000 people. While the one-year relative survival rate has improved, gains at the three- and five-year milestones remain very limited. Mesothelioma continues to have the lowest five-year survival rate of any cancer—and there is still no cure.

Australia continues to have one of the highest incidence rates of mesothelioma in the world, with 90%+  of people diagnosed having a history of possible or probable asbestos exposure. Asbestos was banned nationally more than 20 years ago, so the long latency of mesothelioma (often 20–60 years) means that the burden remains steady and will for many years to come.

ADDRI urges ongoing vigilance. With up to six million tonnes of asbestos still present in our homes, schools, hospitals, and the wider built environment, combined with the rise in DIY renovations, the risk of exposure persists.

ADDRI remains dedicated to:

  • providing comprehensive clinical and community support through the ADDRI Support Service,
  • advancing research into early detection, treatment innovations and better long-term patient outcomes, and
  • working closely with all levels of government and our partners to ensure health, regulatory and education frameworks reflect the continuing risks of asbestos exposure, particularly outside traditional occupational settings.

The AIHW’s report confirms that mesothelioma remains a significant  challenge, but it also highlights where progress is possible. ADDRI remains steadfast in supporting individuals and families, driving world-leading research and advocating for continued vigilance—on the long journey toward prevention, earlier detection, better treatment and ultimately, a cure for mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma in Australia

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Mesothelioma in Australia 2024

Read the full Mesothelioma in Australia 2024 report here

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